ASTHMA
WHAT IS ASTHMA?
A common, chronic (long term) lung disorder in which inflammation causes the bronchi (airways) to swell and narrow. Extra mucus is produced creating breathing difficulties.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
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Coughing (worse during the night and early morning).
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Shortness of breath.
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Chest tightness or pain.
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Trouble sleeping caused by shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing.
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A whistling or wheezing sound when exhaling.
WHAT TRIGGERS ASTHMA?
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Outdoor allergens, such as pollen from grass, trees and weeds.
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Indoor allergens, such as pet dander, dust mites and mold.
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Certain drugs and food additives.
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Irritants in the air, such as smoke, chemical fumes and strong odors.
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Respiratory infections, such as colds, the flu or other related illnesses.
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Physical activity: Exercise (although people with asthma can benefit from exercise)
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Stress.
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Weather conditions, such as cold air or extremely dry, wet or windy weather.
LIFESTYLE CHANGES
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Know and avoid your triggers.
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Try a dairy-free trial (cutting it out for one month): food sensitivities can “set off” an immune process in the gut that causes inflammation - dairy is one of the most common culprits.
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Ask your doctor if any of the following foods can be triggering your asthma: Eggs, Soy, Wheat, Shellfish, Sulphite additives (used in food processing and preparation).
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Seek out “good bacteria.” Probiotics — supplements containing live bacteria, can boost the immune system in the gut, making it less likely to set off an inflammatory response.
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Take vitamins, especially Vitamins C, D and E that support your immune system and help control inflammation. Ask your doctor to perform a simple blood test to check your “D” level and recommend an appropriate dose.
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Add a fish oil supplement: the Omega-3 Fatty Acids in fish oil help combat inflammation that constricts the airways. Look for one containing two to three grams’ total of Omega 3, or of DHA and EPA combined.
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Keep your nasal passages clear: use saline spray to clear your nasal passages. This will reduce strain on your airways by helping you breathe easy - and also cut down on post-nasal drip.
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Breathe steadily: breathing techniques can help with symptoms of asthma, such as hyperventilation or stress.
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Allergy Shots (ask your doctor).
HOW TO CONTROL ASTHMA ATTACKS DURING SEASON CHANGES [1]
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Keep an eye on the weather forecast for any changes and dress accordingly.
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Always have the reliever inhaler wherever you go and take it as prescribed by the doctor.
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Never leave the inhalers in direct sunlight or anywhere that is too hot.
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Always check with your doctor if you are using the inhaler given properly.
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Avoid doing exercise out doors during the hottest part of the day, that is, 11am to 3pm.
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Remain indoors before, during or after a storm.
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Keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
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While indoors, keep the doors and windows closed.
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After being outdoors, change your clothing and shower to wash off any pollen.
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Know the signs and symptoms of hay fever and use therapy provided by the doctor.
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Write an asthma action plan for yourself.
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Avoid other asthma triggers.
REFERENCES
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Asthma UK [Internet]. Weather: Have you noticed that a sudden change in weather can trigger your asthma symptoms?. United Kingdom: Asthma UK; [updated 2019 Jun; cited 2019 Aug 19]. Available from: https://www.asthma.org.uk/advice/triggers/weather/.
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Severe Asthma Toolkit [Internet]. Severe Asthma Symptoms. Australia: Toolkit; [updated 2019 Feb 11; cited 2019 Sep 09]. Available from: https://toolkit.severeasthma.org.au/severe-asthma/symptoms/.
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Gross, D.A. [Internet]. Asthma. New Jersey: Hackensack Sleep Center; [cited 2019 Sep 09]. Available from: https://hackensacksleep.com/asthma/.