1. Airway Constriction
Asthma is caused by an inflammation within your airways. Asthmatic bronchitis, occasionally labeled "Childhood Asthma," can afflict the old as well as young. After repeated asthmatic attacks, your lungs become susceptible to the further complicating diseases such as bronchitis, wherein your large airways also constrict. Sometimes, there is a "trigger" event that stimulates asthmatic bronchitis, which can be isolated with a little effort.
2. Watch for Wheezing
Most commonly heard on exhalation, wheezes are an unforgettable sound and a sign of airway constriction. Small airways, such as those of children, are susceptible. Wheezing is an indicator of impending distress, so be on alert for this memorable sound. First, listen to your (or your child's) breathing. Normal breaths should be soundless and effortless. Second, feel the chest with your fingers spread across the breastbone. Asthmatic bronchitis sufferers can usually feel as well as hear a rasping or snoring sensation caused by excess mucous and tightened airways. Finally, watch for accessory muscle constriction with breaths; the muscles around your neck and in between your ribs will constrict and obviously tighten if you are working too hard to breath.
3. Spirometry and Home Testing
It may not be "just a cold," Unfortunately, this can be a common misdiagnosis, especially in children. As an asthmatic, rely on your gut instinct to know when it's not. Home testing is easy, affordable and a rapid indicator of impending distress. Spirometers are small, hand-held devices that test your force of exhaled breath. This is a quick measure of how constricted your airways are, warning you of an asthmatic attack before it becomes full blown. Another quick and easy measurement is that of pulse oximetry. Pulse oximeters are small devices, which when placed on a finger, can read the percentage of your oxygen intake. A reading of 94 to 100 percent is normal.
4. Albuterol, Steroids or Deep Breaths
You probably already have a cupboard full of asthma medications, stockpiling for an emergency. Once you are diagnosed with asthmatic bronchitis, you will be placed on a strict regiment of breathing treatments and potentially antibiotics to soothe your narrowed airways. Those prescribed can include Albuterol and nebulized medications, steroids (inhaled or taken by mouth) and even antibiotics. Repeated use of oral steroids can have nasty side effects, as can ignoring constricted airways. Discuss these with your doctor and consider the benefits of assisting your medical regiment with exercises such as deep breathing exercises and meditation.
5. Stop the Asthmatic Bronchitis Triggers
When cleaning, don't just skim the surface. Pull those drapes off of the hooks and (with a HEPA filter mask on) watch the 15-year-old dust fly through the air. HEPA masks can be purchased at local hardware stores and will protect your delicate airways from a full-blown asthma attack. It is easier to let the professionals take over here, and let them complete the cleaning process, as the recommended cleaning temperature is 180 degrees Fahrenheit. Your home surfaces, such as window treatments and carpets, can harbor your trigger elements such as pollen and pet dander that can nudge your asthma into an asthmatic bronchitis episode.
