|
|
|
Last Updated: Nov 14, 2008 - 12:49:26 PM |
There are over 15 million asthma sufferers in the U.S. The incidence of this disease has risen four-fold in the last two decades. Some researchers believe this may be due in part to changes in our immune system in response to vaccines, infections, and antibiotics. There may also be an association with increasing air pollution.
Normal breathing, or “respiration,” is for the purpose of getting oxygen into the body and removing carbon dioxide from the body. This process depends on an unobstructed flow of air through the bronchial tubes, into the lungs, and then back out again. In asthma, this airflow is hindered and breathing is restricted.
There are two major components to the respiratory condition of asthma. The first is inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes. The second is constriction of the bronchial tubes in response to irritants and other stimuli, such as pollens, animal dander, smoke, exercise, and temperature changes. Both inflammation and constriction in the bronchial tubes reduce the size of the opening through which air can move. When acute constriction occurs, it is called an asthma attack.
Because air is moving through smaller than normal passageways in an asthma attack, wheezing will occur. Wheezing is the cardinal sign and symptom of asthma. In severe asthma attacks, individuals are working harder to breathe and may use other chest muscles in an attempt to get more air. This is called accessory muscle use. Coughing can also occur.
Children are more likely to develop asthma if there is a family history of asthma, if they have allergies (food or environmental), or if their mother smokes during pregnancy. Those who develop asthma when they are under five years old are more likely to have chronic lung problems later in life. Some children will “outgrow” their asthma as they grow; their bronchial tubes become larger and less susceptible to severe constriction.
Some individuals have mild and intermittent asthma. These children and adults have symptoms one or two days per week or less. Symptoms respond to inhaled bronchial dilators (albuterol), so-called “rescue” medicines. Others have exercise-induced asthma, meaning an attack is triggered only with physical exertion.
Asthma sufferers who have symptoms on most days of the week are said to have persistent asthma. They usually require daily maintenance medicines to keep inflammation under control and to prevent bronchial constriction. These asthmatics require close daily monitoring at home and regular checkups with their doctor. Most will require daily anti-inflammatory medicines and bronchodilators and severe cases may require more potent medicines such as steroid pills.
Asthmatics can track their condition by using a peak flow meter. This is a small plastic, hand-held device that can monitor the “openness” of their airways. If they see a decline, they can take precautions and adjust their medicines to prevent an attack. With more severe drops, they can consult their physician.
Asthmatics can be at greater risk for complications when they develop acute respiratory infections. They should be up-to-date on their vaccinations, especially flu and pneumonia shots.
Thousands of individuals will die each year from asthma. Like most health conditions, the key is controlling the disease through active patient involvement. This means being aware of their current breathing status and taking their medications as prescribed.
The content in this column is for informational purposes only. Consult your physician for appropriate individual treatment. Dr. Reynolds practices Family Medicine in Chesterfield.
© Copyright by Village Publishing
Top of Page Comment
on This Article
The
Village News office is located at 4607 West Hundred Road Chester
Mailing address is PO Box 2397 Chester, VA 23831
Phone: 751-0421 Fax: 751-9155
Office hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday - Friday call ahead for
other hours.
Statement
of Journalistic Ethics
|
|
|
Village News:
Read right 'round the world.
|
|
