ACUTE ASTHMA ATTACK: KNOW WHAT IT IS AND TIPS TO MANAGE THE CONDITION

World Asthma Day is observed on the first Tuesday of May across the globe, hence, it will be celebrated on May 7 this year. The day aims to raise awareness about the condition and help people suffering from the condition live well. The day serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by people who suffer from asthma and the importance of research, education and access to effective care and treatment. The World Health Organisation (WHO) says that in 2019, asthma affected nearly 262 million people and caused 455, 000 deaths.

Asthma is a condition wherein the airways get swollen and narrow which eventually makes breathing difficult. Also, the condition can lead to coughing, shortness of breath and a whistling sound (wheezing). However, the condition might aggravate and the symptoms tend to get worse. Acute asthma attack, also known as asthma exacerbation is a progressive increase in asthma symptoms which include coughing, shortness of breath, or wheezing.

Speaking to Times Now, Dr Hitesh Billa - Pulmonology/ Respiratory Medicine, Apollo Clinic Manikonda and Dr Rakesh Bilagi Pulmonology/ Respiratory Medicine, Apollo Clinic Koramangala said, “These episodes require swift action to prevent complications or, in severe cases, life-threatening outcomes.

“During an acute asthma attack, the airways become inflamed and constricted, reducing airflow and causing respiratory distress. Recognizing early signs of an attack, such as increased use of rescue inhalers or waking up at night due to asthma symptoms, is crucial. Once symptoms are identified, it's essential to act quickly.”

Speaking about factors that can aggravate the condition, Dr Sunil Kumar K, Lead Consultant - Interventional Pulmonology, Aster CMI Hospital said that common cold, flu, or other respiratory illnesses can exacerbate asthma. Allergens, such as dust mites, mould spores, animal dander, and exposure to irritants and chemicals, pollutants like smoke, car exhaust, sudden weather changes and exercise-induced asthma can also cause symptoms and trigger asthma.

Some of the common symptoms of acute asthma attacks are; shortness of breath, coughing, especially at night or early morning, wheezing, chest tightness, rapid breathing and difficulty while talking. People suffering from asthma should watch out for these symptoms.

Tips To Manage An Acute Asthma Attack

Dr Billa and Dr Bilagi said that the first-line treatment involves using a quick-relief bronchodilator, like albuterol, to open the airways. If symptoms don't improve or worsen, medical intervention may be necessary. “Corticosteroids, either inhaled or oral, can help reduce inflammation. In severe cases, emergency services should be contacted, as oxygen therapy or other interventions might be required.”

Dr Kumar K on the other hand shares other tips to manage the condition.

• Regular vaccinations for influenza and pneumonia can help prevent respiratory illnesses that trigger asthma attacks.
• Learning to recognize early warning signs like a cough or slight breathing difficulty allows for early intervention and prevents severe attacks.
• Early diagnosis and a personalized management plan are essential for optimal asthma control. Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or don’t improve after using the inhaler.

Prevention Of Acute Asthma Attack

Preventing acute asthma attacks involves managing triggers, following a personalized asthma action plan and taking prescribed medications as directed. Regular check-ins with healthcare providers help ensure asthma is controlled, reducing the risk of acute attacks. By staying vigilant and adhering to a well-structured management plan, you can reduce the severity and frequency of asthma exacerbations.

2024-05-07T02:01:32Z dg43tfdfdgfd