ASTHMA
It is an episodic chronic respiratory disorder in which
there is airflow obstruction causing difficulty in breathing. It is a very
common disorder affecting children more than adults For some, the condition is
mild with infrequent episodes & for others it is a serious medical
emergency-An episode may pass away quickly and may be short lasting or at times
lasts longer & requires immediate medical help.
CAUSES
Hereditary & familial tendency or history of allergy,
which may be skin allergy also predisposes to asthma in the offsprings. Allergy
mostly inhaled is the most common cause of asthma.
Allergens can be:
Environment - smoke, dust & pollution and petrol fumes.
Pollen and molds from grass, flowers and trees.
Strong perfumes
Paints & varnishes
Tobacco smoke
Animal dander
House dust mite
Chemical fumes
Food, which can cause allergy are:
Sour food
Citrus fruits
Cold food & drinks
Artificially colored & flavored foods
Fish
Beer, wine
Vinegar
Grapes
Canned vegetables
Infection of the lung, which can be bacterial, viral
predisposes to asthma.
Emotional stress is a known trigger factor for an asthmatic
attack.
Over strenuous exercise and inhalation of cold air and
climatic changes are also trigger factors as are certain drugs like asprin.
SYMPTOMS
Initially there is a feeling of restlessness with a painless
tightness in the chest
There may be cough, sometimes with phlegm and a wheezing or
whistling sound when breathing
Mild to moderate shortness of breath and shortness and rapid
breathing follow with a feeling of
Anxiety, sweating and
Inability to lie down on the back. Usually the sufferer
finds comfort in sitting bent forwards and near the windows.
Do's & Dont's
Try to recognize the trigger factors that bring on your
attack, so that you can avoid them In families with history of allergy (asthma,
eczema), avoid artificial milk, eggs, cocoa, juices & wheat preparations
till completion of 6 months. In such circumstances you can only breast feed
till 6 months. Vegetarians need not give non veg diet.
Do breastfeed your baby for the first 6 months to strengthen
the immune system and avoid contact with allergens such as in cow's milk
Avoid foods & drinks that are known to cause a problem
such as vinegar, lemon juice, grapes, instant tea, corn syrup, fruit toppings,
cold food & drink, canned vegetables, beer and wine Avoid smoke, pollution,
dust as far as possible.
There are three steps to be taken when dealing with an
allergy. Firstly, identify the cause or allergen Secondly, avoid it.
Thirdly, if avoidance is impossible, treat the symptoms.
Keep a diary and try to trace a pattern or relation between your allergic
reaction and the allergen. E.g. Sneezing while doing housework could mean you
are allergic to house dust.
Take steps to deal with stress, anxiety and tension as these
can influence the frequency and severity of symptoms
Good nutrition, balanced diet, adequate rest and relaxation
will be beneficial.
Yoga can help you by breathing exercises
Avoid Allergens by:-
Choosing fresh unprocessed food.
Checking food labels for additives
Taking extra care like wearing gloves while using detergents
and cleaners
Clean your house, or vacuum frequently to get rid of dust
mites, animal hair, etc. Avoid carpets,and tapestry furniture at home
Keep away from pet animals
Avoid going into rooms that are being painted or just
painted
Do not use strong perfumes
Vitamin B complex and magnesium supplements may help you
When traveling in polluted environment roll up car windows
and use air conditioning
See a doctor regularly, to be monitored and seek help in
case if a severe attack
Ask your doctor regarding emergency medication to help you
till you reach him
Notice:- WNHO Clinic,Pune doing extensive
work on permanent cure and relief.
Contact Mobile- +91 9822006427
Landline-
020-24463540.
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