Asthma is
a disease of the bronchial tubes (the airways of the lungs),
characterized by chronic tightening of these tubes. Airway obstruction
(shortness of breath, wheezing), bronchial inflammation and airway
irritability (allergy triggers) are the major features associated
with asthma.
An
estimated 12-15 million people in the U.S. are affected
by asthma (including ~10-12% of all children under age 18). Asthma
is most commonly developed by those under age 40.
Common
Causes:
Asthma can develop in anyone at anytime, and is more common in people with
allergies, exposure to tobacco smoke, or a family history of the disease.
The triggers of asthma attacks (sudden starting or worsening of symptoms)
are many, and commonly include:
- Infections
(colds, flu, viruses, sinus infections).
- Allergens
(pollens, mold spores, pet dander, dust mites).
- Irritants
(strong odors, air pollution).
- Tobacco
smoke.
- Exercise
or physical exertion.
- Weater
(humidity and/or temperature changes).
- Strong
emotions (stress, anxiety, laughter or crying).
Common
Symptoms:
Asthma patients display symptoms when their airways tighten, swell, or fill
with mucus. These symptoms include:
- Coughing
(night coughing in particular).
- Wheezing.
- Shortness
of breath.
- Chest
tightness, pain or pressure.
Common
Treatments:
Asthma patients have cases of widely varying severity, and some patients
require far more management than others. Any or all of the following treatments
may be prescribed:
- Anti-inflammatories
(medications to reduce bronchial swelling and mucus production).
- Bronchodilators
(medications to relax the muscles that tighten airways during
attacks).
- Medications
via inhaler, nebulizer or pill.
- Careful
monitoring, such as through the MedStar (for
long-term control)
There
is no cure for Asthma, so patient treatment focuses on careful
management to avoid allergy triggers, control inflammation and
treat asthma attacks as they occur.
The MedStar can
monitor peak flow, lung oxygen, and blood oxygen levels
-- and provide data reports on a daily basis. It is an ideal
low-cost tool to monitor and help control asthma.
