Asthma is a chronic disease that affects the airways that carry air to and from the lungs. In this condition the airways of an asthma patient become narrow, swell and produce extra mucus, thereby making breathing difficult. Asthma attacks can be mild, moderate or severe.
What triggers asthma?
Its causes vary from person to person but some of the most common triggers are:
- Air pollution can trigger an asthma attack.
- Excessive physical activity can also induce asthma attack
- Airborne allergens such as dust mites, pollen, pet and mold
- Lot of stress is also said to be the biggest cause of asthma
- Cold air
- Respiratory infection like common cold
- Smoke from burning wood or grass
Symptoms
Signs of asthma include:
- Trouble in sleeping, which is caused by shortness of breath
- Whistling sound while exhaling
- Chest tightness or pain
Asthma & Diet
In a survey it was found that people with poor nutrition are more likely to develop asthma. Those who stay away from fruits and food with vitamin C, E and omega-3fatty acids usually have poor lung function. Several research studies have suggested that proper diet has a lot to do with asthma. According to doctors, people who eat food, which is high in vitamin C and E, flavonoids, omega-3 fatty acids and beta-carotene have lower rates of asthma.
Diagnosis
Asthma diagnosis generally includes a medical history, physical exam and lung test.
- Medical history: Under this category the doctor will examine the overall health of the patients and will ask that whether they are exposed to tobacco smoke, dust mites or other airborne disease?
- Physical exam: Under this, the doctor will examine your nose, throat and upper airways. In addition, the doctor will use a stethoscope to listen to your breathing
- Lung Test: The doctor will use a spirometry to check the functioning of the lungs
Treatment
The right medicine for controlling an asthma attack depends on the patient’s age, severity of the problem, and medical history. The most recommended medications for treating asthma attack includes Advair and Flovent. The proper dosage of the medicine will help the patient in following ways:
- It will help in preventing chronic and troublesome symptoms like shortness of breath
- Helps in improving the lung function
- It will let the patient to enjoy his or her normal life
- Let the patient sleep properly at night