Asthma is a chronic non-communicable disease that affects both children and adults. It causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways. While it is not curable, it can be effectively managed with a combination of medication and lifestyle adjustments. In this blog, we’ll cover the triggers, warning signs and management of asthma attacks.

 

What are 5 common triggers for asthma?

 

Before discussing the warning signs, it’s important to know about what happens during an asthma attack. It occurs when the airways become inflammed, producing excess mucous and tightening the airways and its muscles. 

 

This results in difficulty in breathing, which can be mild or severe. The 5 common triggers of asthma are

• Irritants ( such as smoke or strong odours)
• Allergens ( such as pollen or dust) 
• Respiratory infections such as cold or flu
• Physical activity
• Emotional stress

What are the early signs of an asthma attack?

 

Being aware of the warning signs of an asthma attack can help in effectively managing the condition. The four most common warning signs of an asthma attack are

 

Shortness of breath

 

The most common early sign of an asthma attack is being short on breath. If you find yourself feeling unusually short of breath, even while doing your day-to-day activities or at rest. Breath gets very difficult when breathing out or breathing faster than usual, where the skin of the chest and neck may struck inward.

 

Wheezing

 

Wheezing is a high-pitched whistling sound that occurs when breathing, particularly during exhalation. It results from the constriction or narrowing of the airways. Wheezing is a significant symptom of an asthma attack. 

 

Persistent cough

 

A persistent cough, especially which can be worse at night or early in the morning. This cough may be dry or wet ( containing mucous). This cough can also get worse during any physical activity. Coughing may be a reaction to airway inflammation and irritation, which are common triggers of an asthma attack.

 

Chest tightness

 

Chest tightness can feel like pain, heavy pressure, or weight, making breathing difficult. It occurs due to airway constriction.

 

What is the monitoring for asthma?

 

Effectively managing an asthma attack involves monitoring and responding to warning signs

 

Monitoring the symptoms

 

To help track the symptoms, keep a diary or a journal. This symptoms diary or journal can be helpful in identifying the frequency and severity, as well as patterns and potential triggers. This can be useful for a treatment plan for managing asthma with your healthcare provider.

 

Avoid known triggers

 

Identify and avoid potential asthma attack triggers such as irritants and allergens. You can use your symptom diary or journal to identify the specific triggers. 

 

Using a peak flow meter

 

A peak flow meter measures airflow in the lungs, helping detect changes in lung function. This can be especially helpful in children, as it may help recognise changes in lung function before symptoms fully develop.

 

Stick with an asthma action plan

 

An asthma action plan could be developed with the healthcare provider, which will have information and instructions on managing the symptoms. The information includes

• Medicine
• Recognising when the symptoms can get worse
• What to do in an emergency

Medications for asthma management

 

Effective asthma management includes medications which can help reduce the worsening of symptoms. There are many effective treatment options available, such as

• Fasenra 30mg Injection (Benralizumab): It is a monoclonal antibody that targets the number of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell which is involved in narrowing and inflammation of airways. 
• Trelegy Ellipta Inhaler: It is a combination of three medications: Fluticasone Furoate (a corticosteroid), Umeclidinium (a long-lasting anticholinergic), and  Vilanterol (a long-acting beta agonist).

When to reach for medical support?

 

While many asthma attacks can be managed with medication and proper care, there are certain times when medical help is necessary. Seek  for medical attention if you experience:

• Severe shortness of breath or difficulty in breathing
• Less responsive than usual or confused
• Bluish or greyish colour around the lupus or fingernails
• Severe wheeze or caught that doesn't improve with medication

Wrapping up

 

Recognising and responding to the warning signals of an asthma attack is critical for successful chronic disease management. Always visit your healthcare provider for individualised advice and changes to your treatment plan. Remember that with care and good management, you can live well with asthma while reducing the impact of attacks on your everyday life.