AUGUST 2013 - What is Asthma, and how can we can breath easier?

ASTHMA is caused usually by an allergic reaction in the lungs which leads to inflammation of the lining of the airways. This inflammation causes swelling & constriction of the airway muscles, leading poor oxygen flow, wheezing and gasping of breath. Approximately 1 in 5 children and 1 in 10 adults in Australia suffer from Asthma or asthma related symptoms.

 What Symptoms are associated with Asthma?

The most common symptoms of asthma are a wheeze, shortness of breath, tightness in the chest, a persistent cough at night or after exercise.  Sometimes asthma can be triggered by exercise, illness and a number of allergens.

 

 

What can trigger Asthma?

Some of the most common triggers for asthma include:-

4 Cold and Flu or chest infection

4 Pollens, grasses and mould

4 Exercise

4 Cigarette smoke, smoking or smoke in general

4 Some chemicals particularly those with strong smells

4 Emotions such as stress

4 Animal hair and dander

4 Dust mites

4 Some drugs including Aspirin, anti-inflammatories and some blood pressure medicines

These symptoms are not exhaustive and are not always related to asthma so it is important to seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist.

 

Tips for Avoiding triggers

· Dust Mites – exposure to dust and dust mites can be difficult to exclude completely as they are part of everyday life. Reduce exposure to dust mites by washing bedclothes in hot water, removing sheepskin and woollen underlays and airing pillow and quilts in direct sunlight each week.

· Mould – again similar to dust mites – keep surfaces clean and free from moisture build up, seal leaks in bathrooms,      kitchens and rooves and regularly place indoor pot plans outside for sunlight.

· Medicines – only a small percentage of people have an allergy to anti-inflammatory type medicines and blood pressure  medicines that may trigger an asthma attack and usually this can only be identified after having taken one of these       particular medicines (and resulting and asthma symptoms). Talk to your doctor or pharmacists for more information.

 What steps should people take if they have Asthma?

It is really important to visit a doctor if you experience any of the above symptoms & if diagnosed with Asthma your Doctor will provide an ASTHMA ACTION PLAN – it will incorporate ideas for reducing symptoms by avoiding known triggers. The Doctor will most likely prescribe medication to be used on a daily or regular basis to PREVENT an asthmatic attack.

It is most important that regular visits to the GP are maintained. There are also some nutrients that can assist in reducing the allergies & the inflammation leading to asthma.

 

What supplements may help reduce Asthma symptoms?

The addition of Magnesium, Zinc, Fish Oils (Omega 3 fatty acids) and fortified Vitamin C – can help prevent or reduce the extent of inflammation produced in the airways. These should be taken on a daily basis to allow the body to fight the trigger factors and reduce airway sensitivity.

Helpful tips for proper Asthma Inhaler Technique

 

Good inhaler technique will lead to better asthma management and control. Some important steps for people using asthma metered dose inhalers like those shown in the above pictures…

 

 

1. Remove cap

2. Hold inhaler upright and shake well

3. Breathe out gently

4. Put mouthpiece between teeth without biting and close lips to form good seal

5. Start to breathe in slowly through mouth and press down firmly on canister

6. Continue to breathe in slowly and deeply

7. Hold breath for about 10 seconds or as long as comfortable

8. While holding breath, remove inhaler from mouth

9. Breathe out gently away from mouthpiece

10. If an extra dose is needed, wait 1 minute and then repeat steps 2 to 9

11. Replace cap

 

Calanna Pharmacy Head Office: Calanna Pharmacy