1. Like a Fish Out of Water
People with asthma sometimes describe feeling like a fish trying to breathe out of water, struggling to get enough air into their lungs. Asthma is a chronic condition that causes inflammation in the linings of the body's airways. When the airways get irritated, they swell up, narrowing the air passage. The airways will also often produce extra mucus, further narrowing the air passage. There are varieties of asthma triggers, resulting in symptoms such as difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing and chest tightness. Asthma is classified as mild intermittent, mild persistent, moderate persistent, or severe persistent.
2. When Asthma Attacks
When asthma symptoms are worse than usual, it is called an asthma attack. In addition to increased inflammation in the airways, the muscles around the airways will constrict and produce more mucus. In addition to wheezing, coughing and a tight chest, people having an asthma attack often experience an increased heart rate and may even become light-headed, dizzy and shaky. In severe cases, airways will constrict so much that the body cannot get enough oxygen to its vital organs, requiring immediate medical attention.
3. Many Asthma Irritants
There are many asthma triggers. Exercise, stress and illness often make symptoms worse, as do allergens such as pet dander, dust mites, mold and pollen. Other irritants may include cigarette smoke, pollution, strongly scented products, food preservatives, medications, and even drastic changes in altitude and temperature. It is important to notice and keep track of your own irritants and symptoms, as they will be different for every individual.
4. Diagnosing and Controlling Asthma
Asthma cannot be cured. However, there are many ways to diagnose, monitor and keep asthma under control. Doctors will usually ask about your medical history and conduct allergy tests, spirometry and peak flow meter tests. The doctor might test you, give you medication, and then test you again to see if medicine makes a difference. Short-term treatments involve medications while long-term treatments include medications, environmental changes and dietary changes. There are also alternative therapies, like acupuncture and herbal remedies. It is important to work closely with your doctor to find the best combination of treatments for you.
5. Just Breathe and Read
Asthma is not a disability. Though asthma may require that you modify some of your daily habits and be aware of potential triggers, there is no reason to limit your potential to live a happy and healthy life to the fullest. Just ask Olympic track-and-field athlete Jackie Joyner-Kersee or singer Billy Joel, both of whom have asthma. Keep track of symptoms and episodes and work closely with your physician. Maintain a healthy and active lifestyle, including regular exercise. Above all, stay educated.
