Living with Asthma

Understanding Asthma

Asthma affects 9 million people in America. While there is no cure, many things can be done to control and prevent asthmatic attacks, so sufferers may lead a normal life. Asthmatic "attacks" occur at varying intervals. Symptoms include a difficulty breathing, wheezing or whistling sound during exhalation. Between attacks, people with asthma may be completely free of respiratory symptoms.

What Happens During an Asthmatic Attack

Asthma is a disease of the bronchial tubes. The passageways of the respiratory system resemble an upside-down tree. The trunk is the windpipe. The larger branches are called bronchi or bronchial tubes. The smallest branches, called bronchioles, bring air into tiny air sacs where the oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange occurs. During an asthmatic attack, the muscles of the smaller bronchi and bronchioles go into spasm, narrowing the airways and making it more difficult for air to get in and out of the lungs. The lining of the bronchi becomes congested and swollen and secretes excess mucus. This adds to the obstruction of airflow.

Causes of Asthmatic Attacks

Asthmatic attacks result from allergy-producing substances, respiratory infections or emotional stress. Allergy-producing substances, known as allergens, are most commonly from pollen or mold produced in the spring and summer. Other allergens include dust, food, animal dander and drugs. Respiratory infections cause about 40 percent of asthmatic attacks. The greatest number of attacks occur during winter when people are prone to respiratory infections.

Emotional stress triggers up to one-third of all asthmatic attacks. Family or job-related problems may provoke an attack. Prevention Try to eliminate the source of irritants. For example, if the cause of asthma is animal dander, a family pet may be the cause. If this is so, it may be necessary to find a new home for the bird or animal. If dust is the offender, you can take many steps to make your home as dust-free as possible. Pay greatest attention to the asthmatic's bedroom.

Here is what you can do: 

  • Get rid of feather stuffed pillows and quilts.
  • Use smooth, not fuzzy, washable blankets and bedspreads.
  • Do not use upholstered furniture.
  • Use light, washable cotton or synthetic-fiber curtains.
  • Avoid drapes or curtains altogether if possible.
  • Use washable cotton throw rugs, not wall-to-wall carpeting.
  • Eliminate stuffed-animal toys.
  • Clean the room daily by damp dusting.

If pollen is the problem, an air-conditioner with a filter can be helpful for the asthmatic's room. If a specific food is the cause, it obviously should not be eaten. Beware of salad bars where the vegetables have been treated with sulfites, or Chinese foods seasoned with MSG. Certain drugs are known to trigger asthmatic attacks in susceptible individuals. Among the most common are aspirin, certain arthritis medications and some drugs taken for heart conditions.

Help avoid respiratory infection by getting your flu shot yearly.

Contact your Doctor for: 

  • New respiratory infections
  • Temperature over 100 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Chest pain
  • Shortness of breath without coughing or exercising
  • Intractable coughing
  • Night-time coughing
  • The development of a severe attack
  • Sinus infections
  • Medication refills

How to Make Living with Asthma Easier

  • Get your yearly flu shot.
  • Stay away from your home if it is being painted or fumigated.
  • Avoid sudden changes of temperature.
  • Avoid people with respiratory infections.
  • Try to avoid emotionally upsetting situations.
  • Drink between six and eight glasses of liquid a day.
  • Take all the medications prescribed by your doctor as directed.
  • Don't smoke and avoid being exposed to smoke.
  • Don't overexert yourself. You are your own best guide as to how much activity you can tolerate.
  • Avoid inhalation of insecticides, deodorants and cleaning aids.

For more information, see your Straub physician or call the 24-hour Appointment Line at (808) 522-4777.