World Asthma Day is celebrated annually on the first Tuesday of May each year. This year, it falls on the sixth of May. This annual event and its initiatives this year seek to create awareness about Asthma and the strategies to control the condition. The theme for this year, “You Can Control Your Asthma” is an encouragement to the multitude of sufferers and gives them the hope that ‘Asthma is manageable’. Though Asthma cannot be cured, patients can learn the art of asthma management in order to lead fruitful lives.

Asthma Unplugged 

Asthma is a chronic disease, which causes inflammation of the inner walls of the airways. Due to the inflammation, the airways become sensitive. Hence, they react adversely when exposed to allergens or irritants of any form causing them to constrict leading to a reduction in the flow of air to the lung tissue. This may manifest as breathing difficulty followed by coughing, tightness in the chest and wheezing.

The reason behind inflammation of the airways is not perfectly understood. Victims are allergic to several irritants in the environment, often a mix of pollutants which cause the airways to flare up. Latest research has pointed a connection between the early exposure to allergens, tobacco smoke, and pollution in the environment and the likelihood of asthma attacks in later life. Asthma is also familial and genetic, research shows. So, those who have asthma sufferers in the family must be on guard.

Asthma attacks range from mild, to moderate and severe. Life threatening conditions can arise during severe attacks especially in the absence of critical care. The first step in controlling asthma would be to approach a medical specialist who will evaluate the condition, sort out the allergens that irritate the airways, and provide the necessary medications for relief. The specialist is also equipped to educate the victim and family with an action plan during an emergency.

Understanding Causes & Symptoms

Triggers in the environment in the form of allergens can cause asthma. For some, viral infections can give rise to the condition. Some victims sense an attack coming after any form of physical activity, called as exercise induced asthma.

Broadly asthma triggers can be the following:

· Allergens
· Cockroaches, dust mites
· Animal dander
· Pollen from trees and grass
· Air pollution
· Tobacco smoke
· Weather changes
· Cold air
· Strong smells
· Perfume
· Strong emotions for instance laughing bouts or even crying
· Viral infections

These triggers can manifest as an asthma attack which could cause the victim to cough, or wheeze, experience chest tightness and shortness of breath. The symptoms can differ with each attack ranging from mild to very severe, and in some cases can also be life threatening.

Asthma Control

The central goal of any asthma treatment plan is to help control the condition.

Medical specialists are equipped to evaluate the condition and work the treatment plan which would employ the use of medicines prescribed for quick relief as well as medicines for an extended period of time, to keep a check on the symptoms.