Asthma: From Chronic to Manageable

Asthma is a widely known, long lasting disease of lungs afflicting millions of people across the world.  According to the National Heart, Lungs and Blood Institute, in United States alone, asthma afflicts more than 25 million people.

A patient of asthma frequently suffers from bouts of coughing, chest congestion and difficulty in breathing. Asthma, though it affects people of all ages, mostly has roots in childhood. The disease distresses the airways, which in turn compress the muscles around the area. The swollen and constricted airways thus make inhaling substances difficult as they permit less oxygen into the lungs. Moreover, cells producing mucus in those tightened tubes will worsen the situation even further.

Asthma attacks are triggered by smoke, pollen and dust. There are medicines available for treating asthma, but no medicine can completely wipe out the disease. In other words, asthma has no cure.

On a more positive note, most asthma patients today are able to control the disease and lead normal and productive lives by managing it on a daily basis. In cold weather especially², a patient needs to take regular preventive medication as prescribed by their health care provider. It is also important to keep your reliever inhaler on you all the time, and take a puff or two of it before stepping out in the cold. It is essential to cover the mouth and nose areas with a clean, fresh scarf which will help to warm up the air before you inhale it. If you also intend to exercise, it is advisable you warm up for 10-15 minutes first and use the inhaler before starting.

Asthma is a chronic ailment affecting a person throughout his or her life, but it should in no way keep you from leading an active and happy life.

You can also refer to Current Respiratory Medicine Reviews and Anti-Inflammatory & Anti-Allergy Agents in Medicinal Chemistry for further information on respiratory diseases, allergies and relevant developments in their cure.