May is a huge month for Asthma and Allergy Awareness – including Food Allergies. The month kicks off with World Asthma day on May 7th.
What is Asthma?
Asthma is a chronic disease that causes airways to become inflamed and hard to breath. With asthma, the inside walls of airways become sore, swollen and sensitive. There is no cure for asthma but it can be managed with proper prevention of asthma attacks and treatment. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America,“more Americans than ever before have asthma and it is one of this country’s most common and costly diseases.”
Asthma attacks happen when symptoms become worse than usual. In severe asthma attacks airways can close so much that vital organs don’t get enough oxygen. Sadly, one could die from a severe asthma attack.
Currently about 300 million people world-wide have asthma including 26 million people in the U.S.
What Causes Asthma?
People with asthma have inflamed airways and are sensitive to things that don’t normally bother others . These triggers can include:
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Smoking
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Air pollution
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Pollen
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Chemical irritants
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House dust
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Pet Dander
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Strong Fumes, Odors
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Exercise
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Changes in Weather
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Medications
What are the symptoms of asthma?
Common symptoms include
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Coughing
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Shortness of breath
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Wheezing and chest tightness
How can an asthma attack be prevented?
There’s no cure for asthma but you can manage the disease by avoiding triggers and taking meds to prevent symptoms.
Follow your treatment plan set up by your doctor. Learn your triggers and avoid them. Take allergy and asthma meds as prescribed. Most people live normal lives with asthma when it is properly managed and can exercise and be athletic. I’ve learned through my doctor how to run competitively despite having asthma. When controlled properly most people can live a normal life.
For more asthma information , check out the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America by clicking here
Do you have asthma? What are you challenges dealing with asthma? What tips do you have for those newly diagnosed with asthma? Share in our Comments section.
