Asthma can be defined as a chronic inflammatory disease that is associated with the hyper-responsiveness of the airway tract. If an asthmatic comes in contact with any trigger (such as allergen, dust, virus, etc), it can lead to narrowing of the airways causing an acute attack. This may even lead to recurrent episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and/or coughing which can vary over time and in intensity.
An individual experiencing an acute asthma attack may experience:
1. A progressive increase in the inability to breathe
2. An increase in the episodes of wheezing and coughing
3. A feeling of tightness in the chest
4. A large drop in the lung function which may require medical assistance
Suffering from Acute Asthma? Here’s How To Manage It
There are different things that you can do in order to manage the symptoms of acute asthma effectively:
1. Stay Informed And Aware Of Your Condition
It is quite common to feel anxious about your condition if you are not aware of the condition. It is therefore advised you must be aware and well informed about the condition. This may include reading books about the condition. If researching online, then make sure you follow legitimate sources and not everything that turns up on search engines.
It is also a good idea to speak to your doctor and get all your queries answered by a medical professional who knows about your condition in depth. This will help you to not only be familiar with the minute details about your condition but also helps you to be in a better position to manage the symptoms of acute asthma.
2. Your Family Also Plays A Key Role
It is recommended that your family and friends should also be made aware of the pros and cons of the condition. This is because, in the case of an acute attack or exacerbation of symptoms, people close to you (like your family members or loved ones) will be well aware of the action plan to help you manage the symptoms. Also, make sure at least one person in your family accompanies you to your doctor and is well aware of the improvement in your condition as well as the triggers of asthma.
3. Never Miss Your Doctor’s Appointment
It is not a bad idea to see how well your condition is progressing by scheduling regular visits to your doctor’s clinic. It is important to schedule appointments at regular intervals as these check-ups will help the doctor keep track of the asthma symptoms and make changes to the treatment plan accordingly. It also helps you to prevent complications as your doctor keeps a track of your condition on a regular basis.
4. Always Take Your Medication On Time
It goes without saying that a written asthma action plan on the use of asthma medications with specific instructions can help patients to recognize and respond appropriately to acute asthma. Taking your medications on time can play an important role in the management of asthma symptoms. Do not hesitate to use inhalers whenever required and carry them everywhere you go.
In conclusion, acute asthma can be a little unnerving, but with the right education and treatment techniques, you may have no problem managing your symptoms.
(The article is reviewed by Dr. Swati Mishra, Medical Editor)
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article in the form of text, tips, suggestions, and products, which comprises general advice for consumers. It is a part of the public awareness initiative supported by Cipla. 1mg does not endorse any brands and is not responsible for their efficacy.
References:
1. Living with asthma. NHS UK. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/asthma/living-with/
2. Asthma: triggers and management. American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI).https://www.aaaai.org/conditions-and-treatments/library/asthma-library/asthma-triggers-and-management