Living with Asthma: Managing Symptoms and Triggers

Dr.Akshay Budhraja, 4 mins read

Asthma is a chronic condition that primarily targets the lungs. This makes the inside walls of the lungs and bronchial tubes swollen and inflamed. Its symptoms usually involve: 

• Cough
• Wheezing
  
• Trouble breathing
  
• Tightness in the chest
  
• Increased mucus production

When these symptoms become severe, asthma attacks occur. Asthma attacks can begin suddenly and range from mild to severe. Thus, it is required to have a proper understanding of this disease, its triggers, prevention and treatment.

Common Triggers

• Air pollution: Vehicle exhaust, factory emissions, dust and stubble burning can make you more prone to asthma attacks.
• Tobacco smoke: Smoking is very injurious to health and those with asthma should avoid it and its smoke. If you are addicted to smoking, take help from a doctor or join a tobacco cessation program.
• Certain chemicals or smells: Strong odours from perfumes, household or industrial cleaners, nail polishes, air fresheners and certain chemicals can make your symptoms worse.
• Exercise: A heavy workout or physical activity can make airways narrow in people with asthma.
• Mold: Damp places can be a breeding ground for molds, which can affect your condition.
• Pests: Mice, cockroaches, bugs, pet dander and some pests can cause an asthma attack.

Symptoms Management

People with asthma can learn about various strategies to avoid the triggers and manage this problem effectively. As it is a chronic condition, you need to care for yourself all the time - not just when you experience the symptoms.

Here are the four ways to manage asthma:

• Identify what triggers your symptoms and avoid them.
• Monitor asthma and observe what signs are getting worse.
• Consult with a doctor and take prescribed medications timely and daily.

Important Components of Asthma Treatment

• Use several devices like spirometry and oximeters to measure your lung functioning.
• Take environmental control measures to avoid or eliminate the factors that trigger or induce asthma symptoms.
• Consider immunotherapy after consulting with your doctor.
• Work with your doctor to create an asthma management plan and follow the treatment course prescribed by you.
  

What Does a Doctor Consider When Suggesting a Treatment Course?

• The severity of the disease 
• Patient’s age, overall health and medical history
  
• Patient’s tolerance to specific medicines, therapies and procedures
  

Also, Read: Asthma Care in Winter: Dos & Don'ts