What Is Acute Asthma And How One Can Manage It Easily?

Asthma can be defined "as a chronic inflammatory disease associated with airway hyperresponsiveness (exaggerated airway-narrowing response to specific triggers such as viruses, allergens and exercise) that leads to recurrent episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness and/or coughing that can vary over time and in intensity."

Acute asthma refers to the exacerbation of the asthma symptoms experienced by the individual. Acute asthma has been clinically acknowledged and is based on the following factors:

1. A progressive increase in the individual's inability to breathe

2. An increase in the wheezing and coughing fits of the individual

3. A feeling of tightness in the chest

4. A large drop in the lung function of the individual which will result in the individual requiring medical assistance

How Can One Manage His Or Her Acute Asthma?

There are different things that one can do in order to manage the symptoms of his or her acute asthma effectively:

1. Educate Oneself On The Nuances Of The Condition

It is quite common for an individual to feel overwhelmed with the condition if he or she doesn't know the minute details. It is therefore advised that the individual educates himself or herself about the condition through conducting their own research from legitimate sources. It is also important that the individual speaks to his or her doctor and get all their queries answered by a medical professional. This will help the individual to familiarize themselves with their asthma and put them in a better position to manage the symptoms of their acute asthma.

2. Non-Asthmatics Need To Be Educated

It is recommended that the family and friends of the individual should also be made aware of the fine points of the condition. This is so that in the case of an exacerbation of symptoms, the people close to the asthmatic are aware of the action which needs to be taken. If a simplified outline of acute asthma is required, you can read Asthma for Non-asthmatics.

3. The Individual Should Visit The Doctor Regularly

It is important for the individual to schedule appointments with his or her doctor at regular intervals. These check-ups will help the doctor keep track of the asthma symptoms and make changes to the treatment plan accordingly. To help asthmatics in India, we have created a Breathefree helpline - 9873 33 55 77. You can use this helpline to locate a nearby doctor or book an appointment.

4. Take The Medication On Time

A written asthma action plan for specific instructions on the use of asthma medications will help patients to recognize and respond appropriately to acute asthma. Taking one's medication on time can play an important role in the management of asthma symptoms. It is also advised that the individual carry their inhalers with them everywhere and use it whenever required. Today, asthmatics tend to hesitate when it comes to using their inhalers due to the stigma and myths that surrounds it. To distinguish between myths and facts, please read 3 Myths About Inhalers That Just Aren't True.

In conclusion, acute asthma can be a little unnerving, but with the right education and treatment techniques, the individual should have no problem managing his or her symptoms.

There is a lot of debate between the oral medication and inhalation therapy treatment routes when it comes to managing the symptoms of asthma. To know more about why inhalation therapy is a better treatment route, please read Here's Why You Should Always Pick Inhalers Over Oral Medication.