2023-07-18 11:42:21
Title: Understanding Asthma: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Subtitle: Shedding Light on the Chronic Respiratory Disease
By [Author Name]
[date]
Asthma can be behind breathing problems, especially when they are chronic. This article aims to answer questions about the symptoms, causes, and treatment of asthma to provide a better understanding of this complex disease.
What is Asthma?
Asthma, as defined by the Pharmacy magazine, is an umbrella term for various forms of chronic, inflammatory diseases of the airways. It is a condition where the immune system overreacts to specific triggers, such as pollen, animal hair, or house dust mites. Allergic asthma typically starts in childhood, while non-allergic asthma appears later in life.
Symptoms of Asthma
The key symptom of asthma is wheezing, referred to in German as “asthma.” Other common symptoms include:
– Shortness of breath, especially at night
– Tightness in the chest
– Pain when breathing in cold air
– Shortness of breath during physical exertion
– Noisy breathing (wheezing, whistling, humming)
– Coughing and/or urge to cough
– Racing heartbeat during an acute attack
– Bluish discoloration of lips and skin in severe cases
Severity and frequency of symptoms can vary. In children, asthma may manifest as coughing and slight wheezing or rumbling during breathing.
Causes of Asthma
Asthma can develop in childhood or later in life, often with a familial risk. Other risk factors include:
– Presence of other allergic reactions in the family or child (e.g., hay fever, neurodermatitis)
– Below-average birth weight
– Childhood overweight and lack of exercise
– Frequent respiratory infections
– Exposure to allergens (e.g., animal hair)
– Smoking, including exposure to second-hand smoke
Boys are more commonly affected by asthma than girls. In Germany, asthma affects 4% of children and 6% of adults, making it the most prevalent chronic disease in children.
Treating Asthma
The primary goal of asthma treatment is to minimize the frequency and severity of symptoms and allow for a normal everyday life. Medications for asthma fall into two categories: fast-acting relievers and slow-acting long-term controllers.
Reliever medications are used for mild asthma symptoms, while long-term medications are used for those with severe asthma to control airway inflammation. Consistent and correct use of medication is crucial to building adequate protection against triggers. Lifestyle changes, including exercise and certain breathing techniques, as well as vaccination against influenza and pneumococci, can also be helpful.
Inhalation techniques should be carefully followed to ensure effective delivery of medication. Additionally, maintaining proper posture during breathing exercises and incorporating relaxation techniques can contribute to symptom management.
When to Seek Emergency Care
In the event of an asthma emergency, it is important to stay calm and follow these golden rules:
– Inhale rescue medication as directed by a doctor.
– Use posture and breathing techniques to facilitate breathing.
– If there is no improvement after ten minutes, inhale rescue medication again and, if directed by a doctor, take a corticosteroid tablet.
– Call emergency medical services if experiencing severe symptoms, such as difficulty speaking, bluish discoloration, or lack of improvement after self-treatment.
By providing a comprehensive understanding of asthma, its symptoms, causes, and treatment options, individuals with the condition can effectively manage their symptoms and lead a fulfilling life.]
#Symptoms #Treatment #Inhalation #Emergency