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Living With
Asthma: How To CopeThousands
of people worldwide suffer from asthma. If you don't have it,
you undoubtedly know someone who does. It's a common
condition, and fortunately it isn't too severe in most cases.
It acts by restricting the airways to the lungs, causing a
great deal of discomfort. Although asthma attacks usually only
last for a few minutes, in some cases they can be fatal.
As
yet the research has not revealed the reasons due to which
asthma is caused in people. Though some believe that the
culprit could be the genetics of an individual. In most cases
asthma appears early in the life on an individual and more
often than not stays with him till the end of his days.
Over
the years there has been a rise in the number of asthma patients.
Though no clear reason has emerged to explain this but many
believe it could one of the many ills of fast paced modern
life arising from bad eating habits, stress and a polluted
environment.
There are a variety of triggers for
asthma attacks. A person can be affected by all of them or
only some of them. The most common triggers for asthma attacks
are exercise, smoking, dust, pollen, illness such as colds and
flues, certain types of foods, and even sudden changes in air temperature.
Considering
the frequency of asthmatic patients in our society it would be
a good idea for all of us to become knowledgeable in ways to
help patients during an asthma attack. Generally the symptoms
of an asthma attack are very easy to judge for one and all.
The
signs are typically wheezing, coughing, breathlessness, and a
tightness in the chest area. Most asthmatics have an inhaler
containing medication to help control their asthma and these
inhalers should be carried by an asthmatic at all times. If
someone is suffering a serious asthma attack and they either
don't have their inhaler, or it isn't working, call 911
immediately.
Mostly doctors prescribe the inhaler as
the primary cure for asthma. However, there are also other
ways to deal with the disease about which your doctor can
guide you. Nowadays there is growing awareness about asthma.
You can find different support groups who are advocating ways
of living with asthma.
In the event that
you do have asthma, learn to identify what your triggers are.
That way you can avoid them as often as possible. As an
example, you may find that exercise triggers your attacks.
Since we all need physical activity to remain healthy, get
together with your doctor to explore another exercise that
doesn't set off your asthma attacks.
All
asthmatics should learn the best ways to care for themselves
when it comes to avoiding asthma attacks. Be sure to alert
those close to you of your condition. Research your condition
and learn all you can about it. Let those around you in on the
information you find. Knowledge is always a good preventative,
and asthma is no exception. Be sure to talk with your doctor
about any concerns.
About the
author: Stephanie Winkton is the chief editor for A-Z Asthma, a fantastic
website to visit when you are searching for the latest
knowledge, accurate up to date advice and commentary
aboutAsthma. For questions or comments about this article
why not visit:
http://www.azasthma.com/articles
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