According to the World Health Organization, in 2024 approximately 250 million people were affected by this chronic disease. Many don't seek treatment or are not aware they have it, which can be seriously hazardous to health.
Triggers may be pollution, dust, smoke, colds, seasonal shifts, scented products, says WHO. Understand your personal sensitivities. Minimise contact. If exposure is unavoidable, keep rescue inhaler nearby.
Symptoms: Persistent coughing, chest pressure, shortness of breath with a whistling sound, reduced physical stamina, fatigue. Monitoring symptoms allows more effective managment, states the American Lung Association.
According to WebMD, though uncommon, foods can set off a bout of asthma especially food preservatives like sodium bisulphite, potassium bisulphite, sodium metabisulphite, potassium metabisulphite and sodium sulphite found in beer, wine, pickled food, prawns, dried vegetables/fruits.
Mayo Clinc suggests running a cooling system to filter indoor air. It blocks outdoor allergens like plant pollen and keeps moisture levels down, limiting dust mite growth. No AC? Keep windows shut when pollen counts are high. Always keep your home clean.
Asthma doesn't have to limit your activity levels. Consistent physical activity boosts heart and lung health, which eases asthma symptoms. In cold weather, consider wearing a mask to warm the air you inhale, advises Mayo Clinic.
A spacer is a device that helps inhaled medication reach your lungs more effectively by providing extra time for inhalation and reducing the need for perfect timing, says WHO. It ensures more medicine reaches the airways instead of staying in the mouth or throat.
Medications for long-term asthma management prevent symptoms and flare-ups. It’s important to take them daily, even when you’re feeling fine. They reduce airway inflammation and keep your asthma stable, making sudden attacks less likely, explains Mayo Clinic.