Asthma

Asthma is an inflammatory lung condition causing difficulty breathing. It is a chronic disease where symptoms can get worse when exposed to different triggers including allergens (such as pollen, pet dander), infections (viruses), irritants (smoke, pollution) or exercise. 1

• Genetics: asthma is often seen in same family members which suggest a genetic predisposition 

• Environmental factors: exposure to allergens, pollutants (such as tobacco smoke, chemical fumes, strong odors), respiratory infections, occupational exposure 

(chemicals, gases)

• Physical factors: exercise (especially in cold, dry air)

• Psychological factors:  emotional stress, crying can also sometimes trigger or worsen asthma symptoms2

• Understand your triggers: it is crucial that you learn what triggers your asthma symptoms whether it is pollen, dust, pets, cold air, exercise or something else. Avoiding triggers can help prevent asthma attacks.

• Avoid smoking

• Take Your Medications: Use your asthma medications exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you are unsure about how to use them consult your pharmacist for a tutorial or explanation.

• Always Carry Your Inhaler: Always keep your reliever inhaler with you, especially when you're doing physical activities or going somewhere new. This way, you're prepared in case you have an asthma attack.

• Stay Informed: Keep learning about asthma and how it affects you. Ask your doctor questions and stay up-to-date on new treatments or management strategies.

• Make sure your vaccinations are up to date: COVID-19 vaccination, pneumococcal vaccine, and yearly influenza vaccine

• Have an asthma action plan: this is a plan provided by your healthcare provider  detailing the steps you should take depending on the severity of your asthma symptoms. 

• Regular Check-ups: Visit your doctor regularly to monitor your asthma and adjust your treatment plan as needed. Follow-up with your doctor at least once a year, more might be necessary depending on the severity of your condition. 

An asthma exacerbation, also known as an asthma attack,occurs when your asthma symptoms become more intense or severe than usual. Some of the symptoms you might experience include: 

Mild to Severe: 

• disrupted sleep due to difficulty breathing 

• difficulty exercising normally without breathing problems 

• decreased activity due to asthma 

• getting cold/flu more easily3

Life- threatening: 

• wheezing (which is a whistling sound when you breathe)

• breathlessness (when you feel like you can’t catch your breath)

• chest tightness (as if someone is squeezing your chest) 

• coughing ( more than usual and particularly at night) 

• increased mucus production 

• difficulty speaking 

• reliever medication is not helping 

• sweating and anxiety3

If you believe to be experiencing life-threatening symptoms of an asthma attack, you should: 

1. Sit upright, or find a position that makes it easier for you to breathe 

2. Use your reliever inhaler (rescue inhaler) 

3. Refer to your asthma action plan

4. Call 911 if your symptoms are getting worse even after using your  inhaler 

5. Follow-up with your healthcare provider