According to MedlinePlus, asthma is a chronic disease where the inside walls of the airway become sore and swollen. This results in less air getting into the lungs, resulting in common symptoms such as wheezing, coughing and tightness of the chest. An increase in these symptoms is termed an asthma attack. Understanding of key facts, triggers and behavior modification can assist in the control and management of asthma.
Populations at Risk
Young children are most at risk for asthma according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. The risk is the result of frequent wheezing from respiratory infections and allergies, eczema and a parental history of asthma. Among children, asthma is more common in boys. In adults, asthma is most common among women, although a clear reason is not yet understood.
Diagnosis of Asthma
A physician, based upon factors, including medical history, a comprehensive physical exam and tests, can diagnose asthma. Treatment methods can be developed based upon the severity of asthma, intermittent, mild, moderate or severe.
Triggers
Asthma triggers can vary from person to person. According to the Centers for Disease Control, common triggers include exposure to environmental tobacco smoke, dust mites, pets, mold, sinus infections, exercise, reflux disease and other allergens. It is important for a person with asthma to avoid these triggers to assist in the reduction of asthma-related symptoms and airway inflammation.
Treatment of Asthma
The control of asthma is usually managed by following a health provider recommended regimen, including medication and reduction of exposure to triggers. Medications types vary for asthma treatment. They may include inhaled or pill form medications. Treatment types are usually in quick and long-term control mechanisms. Quick-relief medications help control the symptoms from an asthma attack, according to the CDC. Long-term medications help in the control of asthma and result in fewer and milder asthma attacks.
Important Statistics
Asthma and related complications have a very debilitating effect on families and the healthcare system. Estimates range from 16 to 22 million people in the U.S. with asthma. According to 2008 Centers for Disease Control data, 9.4 percent of U.S. children or about 7 million people have it. The CDC estimates that asthma related doctor appointment amounted to almost 11 million in 2006. Likewise, hospital admissions from asthma were over 400,000 in 2006, including about 3,600 deaths.
Long-Term
Long-term management of asthma can occur with appropriate planning. An asthmatic and his physician should develop a plan, called an asthma action plan. The plan is important in the identification of triggers, medication adherence and overall management and control. It is important for people of all ages, as permissible, to play an active role in the control of their condition.
