Asthma is a very common disease, long lasting or perhaps even lifelong. The condition is seen in all age groups. There are lots of researches going on across worldwide but yet, there is no permanent cure. The only solution to this problem is effective treatment and control of this state. There is no hard and fast rule that our doctor can provide to control Asthma. As an asthmatic ourselves, we need to make our own rule book to keep a control of our condition. In medical terminology, this disease is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the upper respiratory (airway) tract including the lungs. This swelling makes the airway extreme sensitive to any kind of irritations and allergic reactions. Any trigger in the form of cold, allergy, heavy exercise, stress or exertion can cause narrowing of the airway resulting in symptoms like chest tightness, breathing or wheezing which is termed as Asthmatic attack.
The best way we can live with this disease is by being more proactive. We need to understand our condition, educate ourselves and being aware of our triggering symptoms. I think, we know our body the best way than anybody else. That is how; we can control our Asthmatic state. Whenever, we visit our doctor, we need to understand our treatment regime and know why each drug is given and in what doses. We need to understand clearly or rather be aware from our doctor about the doses and drugs that needs to be taken in case of an asthmatic attack.
Medications like bronchodilators and corticosteroids are given as daily maintenance regime in the form of oral pills and inhaled nebulizers. We need to follow the regime exactly as prescribed. Overuse can cause drug side effects and can be dangerous. Apart from this, as an asthmatic, we need know our drugs and doses for quick relief in case of mild or moderate trigger symptoms. If our symptoms are uncontrollable, we need to report at emergency as soon as possible. Likewise, in different age groups, drugs and doses are different. In children, corticosteroids are given in smaller or moderate doses as they may slower the growth as a side effect. They should be made aware and avoid activities in school or at play which might trigger an asthmatic attack. In elderly people, treatment regime is made in adjustment with other drug regime taken for some other conditions like heart disease or diabetes. In pregnant woman, drugs and doses are given in such a way that it has least effect on the growing foetus. In pregnancy, the risk is doubled for a trigger, so she needs to be extra careful and avoid any untoward situation.
Certain habits like smoking, drinking alcohol or ingestion of tobacco should be avoided. Allergic reactions like dusty atmosphere, exposure to irritants (perfumes or cleaning products), too stress or heavy exercise can not only trigger but worsen the condition. So these things should be completely avoided. Many people believe in certain herbs or natural remedy. This should not be taken without the treating doctor's advice as they may interfere with the routine drug regime. Hence, if we sincerely follow our daily treatment regime and avoid trigger situations, there is no doubt about it that we can live with Asthma as normally as someone else without it.
About Author / Additional Info:
A Medical Professional who likes to write on health related topics.
