Asthma: How to take extra care during spring
Many of us remember the kid in primary
school, even high school who carried around a puffer and knew that when playing
on the ovals they could break down into a fit of coughing at any time. They
would struggle on cold mornings to breathe easy but come the spring time it was
a whole nother level. Well spring is approaching and below is our guide to asthma
and how to reduce your risk in the upcoming months.
What is Asthma
Asthma is the inflammation of the lungs
making it harder to breathe. The sensitive lungs of people with asthma are
triggered by any number of stimulus and the muscles around the airways begin to
tighten, the airways swell and become narrow with mucus. When people are
triggered rapidly it is often referred to as an asthma attack. With one in nine
people in Australia suffering this is far from a niche issue.
The most common symptoms of asthma
include:
- Being short of breath
- Continual coughing
- Tightness throughout the chest
Asthma can be caused by a number of issues
including family history of airway related disease including asthma, hayfever
and eczema, exposure to tobacco smoke obesity, premature birth and exposure to
certain chemicals.
While asthma is not regarded as curable
the issue can be managed on a day tp day basis to help sufferers persist
through the symptoms. Treatment can be divided into two sources including
preventers and relievers. Relievers include Ventolin better known as the puffer
and can be used when wheezing heavily to the point where you have trouble
breathing. Preventers are often taken in small doses every day by adults
suffering with asthma and include inhaled corticosteroid. These are usually
only prescribed to people who are suffering on a regular basis.
Protecting yourself during spring
With the extra pollen filling the air
during the spring time, here is just a few ways you can help prevent the onset
of heavy asthma symptoms:
1. Avoid being outdoors during heavy pollenated times
(including storms, windy days and mornings)
2. Shower after playing outdoors. The pollen sticks to
your body.
3. Always wear a mask when gardening and keep your lawn
short.
4. Try to workout indoors as much as possible.
5. Opt for air conditioning instead of open windows when
driving. Make sure your air conditioning is set to recirculate.
6. Manage your asthma with medication (preventers and
relievers)
7. Stay healthy by maintaining fitness and avoiding
tobacco smoke.