Why is it important to address asthma?

Asthma affected an estimated 262 million people in 2019 and caused 461000 deaths (1). Asthma is the most common chronic disease among children. Inhaled medication can control asthma symptoms and allow people with asthma to lead a normal, active life. Avoiding asthma triggers can also help to reduce asthma symptoms.

What happens if you ignore an asthma attack?

Asthma undiagnosed or untreated aggressively with medicines can lead to an increased risk of lung scarring. This is a permanent damage to your lungs and airways, and you cannot breathe properly forever unless with an external aid. This stage of asthma is irreversible i.e. it cannot be reversed with medications.

Why is an asthma Action Plan important?

Using a written asthma action plan makes it easier for you to measure whether your asthma is under control — and it lets you know exactly what steps to take when it isn’t. An asthma action plan is especially important if you have moderate to severe asthma or you’ve had a serious asthma attack in the past.

What should be your first action if someone has an asthma attack?

If someone is having an asthma attack: Ask them to breathe slowly and deeply. Sit them down. If the attack does not ease, advise one to two puffs every two minutes for up to 10 puffs. If they still don’t improve call 999 or 112.

How can asthma be addressed?

Take your asthma medicines as directed. Most people with asthma need one or more medicines to help control their disease. Work with your doctor, pharmacist, or asthma educator to make sure you are using the medication the right way. Learn the difference between quick-relief and controller medications.

How Does asthma affect communities?

The asthmatic patients often use emergency care, sometimes requiring hospital admission, and have a high number of school days missed and workdays lost. In addition, it can cause early permanent disability and premature death. The economic burden of asthma is an important measure of its effect on society.

Does untreated asthma damage lungs?

Asthma can cause irreversible damage to your lungs if the condition is not controlled well. Asthma inflames the inner lining of the respiratory tubes and tightens the smooth muscles surrounding the airways, resulting in narrowed airways and reduced air supply to lungs.

Are asthma action plans effective?

The written asthma action plan was effective in increasing the patients’ knowledge about their condition, improving their quality of life and functional limitations, and increasing their confidence level about controlling their asthma.

Who needs an asthma action plan?

Everyone with asthma needs his or her own Asthma Action Plan. Work with your health care provider to create a plan that works for you. Your goal is to prevent and control your asthma attacks.

What do you say to someone with asthma?

Here’s what to do:

• Stay calm and be reassuring.
• Take your friend away from any possible asthma triggers, like smoke.
• Have your friend sit upright.
• If your friend can talk, ask what his or her asthma action plan says to do during a flare-up.

Which of the following may be triggers for an asthma attack?

An asthma attack can be triggered by exposure to an allergen, such as tree, grass or weed pollen, dust mites, cockroaches or animal dander. Other common triggers are irritants in the air, such as smoke or chemical fumes, and strong odors, such as perfume.