Asthma Management Edmonton
Asthma is the inflammation and narrowing of small airways in the lungs, commonly affecting children and adults alike, and is the most common chronic disease in children.
Asthma causes the bronchial tubes to become inflamed and narrowed, which can result in difficulty breathing and limiting airflow. Those suffering from asthma find the muscles surrounding the airways of the lungs, which are normally relaxed, become sensitive and inflamed.
During an asthma attack, the airways are already inflamed and can become even more constricted, obstructing airflow to the lungs, which requires the sufferer to take medications that will help loosen the muscles around the airways.
At Brintnell Pharmacy and Travel Clinic, our pharmacists have the necessary experience and knowledge to help you manage your asthma. While asthma can’t be cured, it can be well managed and controlled with the right steps, precautions, and medications prescribed by a healthcare professional, helping to minimize your symptoms.
Typically, asthma is treated with inhaled medications, taken daily, to control and treat persistent inflammation of the airways. In addition, those with asthma should carry a rescue inhaler called a bronchodilator that relaxes the muscles in the lungs and opens the airways thereby making breathing easier.
When a person relies on their reliever inhalers too often, the asthma is considered not to be under control, and further advice from your primary healthcare provider (a medical doctor, a pharmacist, or a nurse practitioner) should be sought.
Symptoms of asthma can include:
- Regular coughing
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Increased production of mucus
- Breathing difficulty resulting in trouble sleeping
- Breathing difficulty resulting in difficulty taking part in strenuous physical activity, such as sports or exercise
A wide variety of factors can result in an increased risk of developing asthma, though it can be difficult to identify a single, direct cause. Factors increasing the risk of developing asthma can include:
- Genetics (family history of asthma)
- Allergic conditions like hay fever (rhinitis) and eczema
- Urbanization
- Early life events which affect developing lungs, including premature birth, low birth weight, exposure to air pollution, exposure to tobacco smoke, viral respiratory infections, and more
- Environmental allergens like household dust mites, mold, air pollution, chemicals, fumes, and more
- Obesity
PHARMACIST’S TIP
Environmental factors can result in asthma triggers, worsening asthma symptoms, or increasing the occurrence of asthma attacks. Asthma management includes properly monitoring triggers and avoiding them as much as possible.
With proper management, those with asthma can live their lives free of symptoms.
That said, it’s important to always carry a reliever medication in case of an asthma attack as it is likely impossible to avoid triggers entirely. Common asthma triggers can include:
- Mold
- Pollen
- Pet dander
- Food additives and allergies
- Cockroaches
- Air pollutants
- Viral infections
- Weather
- Emotional stress
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Asthma Management
Q. What is asthma, and how does it affect individuals?
A. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to difficulty in breathing. It may be activated by a range of allergens, irritants, or environmental influences, impacting individuals in diverse ways.
Q. What are common asthma triggers?
A. Common asthma triggers include pollen, dust mites, mold, pet dander, smoke, strong odors, cold air, and strenuous exercise. Identifying these triggers is essential for effective asthma management.
Q. How can one manage asthma effectively?
A. Effective asthma management involves regularly monitoring symptoms, adhering to prescribed medication regimens, avoiding known triggers, and developing an action plan in consultation with healthcare providers.
Q. What types of medications are used to treat asthma?
A. Asthma treatment typically includes quick-relief medications (like salbutamol). for immediate symptom relief and long-term control medications (such as inhaled corticosteroids) to manage chronic inflammation and prevent attacks.
Q. Is it possible to outgrow asthma?
A. Some children may experience a decrease in symptoms as they grow older, but asthma can also persist into adulthood. Continuous management and consultation with a healthcare provider are recommended.
Q. How can patients create an asthma action plan?
A. An asthma action plan is developed in collaboration with healthcare providers and outlines daily management strategies, medication usage, and steps to take in case of an asthma attack or worsening symptoms.
Q. What role does exercise play in asthma management?
A. Exercise can be beneficial for individuals with asthma, as it strengthens respiratory muscles and improves overall health. However, it is crucial to identify and avoid any exercise-induced symptoms and consult a physician about suitable activities.
Q. Are there any lifestyle modifications that can help with asthma?
A. Lifestyle modifications such as maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding smoking, managing stress, and ensuring regular medical check-ups can significantly improve asthma control.
Q. How important is a regular medical check-up for asthma patients?
A. Regular check-ups are vital for asthma patients to monitor control levels, assess medications, and make necessary adjustments to their management plan, ensuring optimal health outcomes.
Q. What should someone do during an asthma attack?
A. During an asthma attack, individuals should remain calm, use their quick-relief inhaler as
prescribed, and seek emergency medical help if symptoms do not improve or worsen.
Q. Can alternative therapies be beneficial for asthma management?
A. While some alternative therapies may provide relief for certain individuals, they should
complement, not replace, medical treatments. Patients should discuss any complementary approaches with their healthcare provider.
These FAQs provide an overview of essential information regarding asthma management, highlighting the importance of understanding the condition, medication adherence, and lifestyle adaptations to maintain optimal health. For personalized advice and treatment plans, individuals are encouraged to consult with healthcare professionals.