Asthma

What is Asthma?

Asthmatic bronchitis refers to the chronic inflammation of the air passages that lead to the lungs (bronchi). At times of increased irritation the bronchi constrict and collect mucus, which makes it difficult to breathe. Coughing, wheezing, and tightness in the chest may accompany this.

During an asthma attack, these passages constrict, making it difficult to breath. These so called asthma attacks occur most often at night or early morning. Kids make up a significant portion of asthma sufferers, but bronchodilators can help them lead a normal life and control their asthma.

Symptoms of Asthma

The symptoms of asthma include:

Difficulty breathing

Shortness of breath

Coughing

Wheezing

Tightness in chest

These symptoms are usually associated with an obstruction of the airways, which is reversible through the use of the bronchodilator inhaler.

Asthma Treatment

Although there is no cure, the condition can be managed by limiting the contaminants that you breathe in. People with asthmatic bronchitis are more sensitive to irritants such as cigarette smoke, pollen, dust, chemicals, and pollution. They should also have a bronchodilator on hand in case a sudden asthma attack makes it difficult to breathe.

The sensitivity of the tissue that lines the air passages of asthmatics means that maintaining a clean supply of air can help prevent asthma attacks. Maintaining a dust free house and staying away from pet dander can go a long way to lessening asthma.

It is also a good idea to close the windows in times of high pollen or air pollution. Maintaining your ventilation system filters or purchasing standalone filters can also help prevent asthma attacks. Known asthma sufferers should have a bronchodilator on hand in case of an attack and be familiar with how to use it. Without the ability to open up air passages at the times of asthma attacks, the condition can prove fatal.

Preventing Allergy Reactions

Substances within the house which may cause asthma include feathers, animal dander from cats or dogs, dust mites, and other insects. Reducing exposure to the below listed allergens within the house will help prevent allergic reactions:

Reduce the amount of carpet and rugs within the house. Rugs and carpets act as a magnet for particles and dust mites thrive and multiply within them. If removing carpet is not possible, be sure to vacuum it every week to remove the dust which may have settled within it.

Maintain humidity below 50% within the house. Dust mites and insects thrive in higher humidity and by lowering it you keep them from multiplying.

A cat or dog can trigger allergies through pet dander and may even bring outside contaminants inside the home. People with allergies should avoid keeping these animals.

Keep the filters in your ventilation system clean. If there is no air circulation system within the house, then using a separate air filter can help remove airborne contaminants.

If you suffer from food allergies avoid processed foods with hard to pinpoint ingredients and preservatives which may trigger an allergic reaction.

By following the guidelines above you’ll have greater control over your asthma symptoms and the chances of an asthma attack reoccurring will diminish immensely.