WHAT IS ASTHMA?

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A common, chronic (long term) lung disorder in which inflammation causes the bronchi (airways) to swell and narrow.  Extra mucus is produced creating breathing difficulties.

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SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

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• Coughing (worse during the night and early morning).

• Shortness of breath.

• Chest tightness or pain. 

• Trouble sleeping caused by shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing.

• A whistling or wheezing sound when exhaling.

 

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WHAT TRIGGERS ASTHMA?

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• Outdoor allergens, such as pollen from grass, trees and weeds.

• Indoor allergens, such as pet dander, dust mites and mold.

• Certain drugs and food additives.

• Irritants in the air, such as smoke, chemical fumes and strong odors.

• Respiratory infections, such as colds, the flu or other related illnesses.

• Physical activity: Exercise (although people with asthma can benefit from exercise)

• Stress.

• Weather conditions, such as cold air or extremely dry, wet or windy weather.

 

LIFESTYLE CHANGES

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• Know and avoid your triggers.  

• Try a dairy-free trial (cutting it out for one month): food sensitivities can “set off” an immune process in the gut that causes inflammation - dairy is one of the most common culprits.  

• Ask your doctor if any of the following foods can be triggering your asthma:  Eggs, Soy, Wheat, Shellfish, Sulphite additives (used in food   processing and preparation).

• Seek out “good bacteria.” Probiotics — supplements containing live bacteria, can boost the immune system in the gut, making it less likely to set off an inflammatory response.

• Take vitamins, especially Vitamins C, D and E that support your immune system and help control inflammation.   Ask your doctor to perform a simple blood test to check your “D” level and recommend an appropriate dose.

• Add a fish oil supplement: the Omega-3 Fatty Acids in fish oil help combat inflammation that constricts the airways. Look for one containing two to three grams’ total of Omega 3, or of DHA and EPA combined.

• Keep your nasal passages clear: use saline spray to clear your nasal passages. This will reduce strain on your airways by helping you breathe easy - and also cut down on post-nasal drip.

• Breathe steadily: breathing techniques can help with symptoms of asthma, such as hyperventilation or stress.

• Allergy Shots (ask your doctor).

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HOW TO CONTROL ASTHMA ATTACKS DURING SEASON CHANGES [1]

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• Keep an eye on the weather forecast for any changes and dress accordingly.

• Always have the reliever inhaler wherever you go and take it as prescribed by the doctor.

• Never leave the inhalers in direct sunlight or anywhere that is too hot.

• Always check with your doctor if you are using the inhaler given properly.

• Avoid doing exercise out doors during the hottest part of the day, that is, 11am to 3pm.

• Remain indoors before, during or after a storm.

• Keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

• While indoors, keep the doors and windows closed.

• After being outdoors, change your clothing and shower to wash off any pollen.

• Know the signs and symptoms of hay fever and use therapy provided by the doctor.

• Write an asthma action plan for yourself.

• Avoid other asthma triggers.

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REFERENCES

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1. Asthma UK [Internet]. Weather: Have you noticed that a sudden change in weather can trigger your asthma symptoms?. United Kingdom: Asthma UK; [updated 2019 Jun; cited 2019 Aug 19]. Available from: https://www.asthma.org.uk/advice/triggers/weather/.

2. Severe Asthma Toolkit [Internet]. Severe Asthma Symptoms. Australia: Toolkit; [updated 2019 Feb 11; cited 2019 Sep 09]. Available from: https://toolkit.severeasthma.org.au/severe-asthma/symptoms/.

3. Gross, D.A. [Internet]. Asthma. New Jersey: Hackensack Sleep Center; [cited 2019 Sep 09]. Available from: https://hackensacksleep.com/asthma/.

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