How to Prevent Viral Induced Asthma Attacks

Did you know that viral infections can also trigger an asthma attack? In such cases, the type of asthma is called viral induced asthma. For instance, you may have common colds which can lead to asthma symptoms. You may find yourself wheezing, coughing, experiencing shortness of breath and chest pain or tightness. Your common colds, which is caused by Rhinovirus, has now resulted in viral induced asthma.

Different viruses which cause respiratory infections have been established to cause viral induced asthma. These are Rhinovirus for common colds, Influenza A for the flu, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus for respiratory infections.

How can viral infection cause asthma? When you have a viral infection, the body will fight this infection through an inflammatory response. If you have viral respiratory infection, the inflammation will be concentrated on the respiratory system. Thus, your respiratory system will start swelling and there will be increased sensitivity of the cells in the air passages. Mucus production is also increased. During this inflammatory response against viral infection, asthma symptoms may start occurring. This is how viral induced asthma begins.

Diagnosis of viral induced asthma must be accurately done in order to make the proper treatment. Lung function tests will accurately establish if you have asthma symptoms. The lung function tests will identify if there are asthmatic changes.

Treatment of viral induced asthma is through anti-asthma medications like bronchodilators and inhalers. Remember that in asthma, prevention is the key. If you can avoid exposure to the trigger, you will have less asthma attacks. How can you prevent viral induced asthma attacks?

In order to prevent viral induced asthma, you must prevent getting a viral infection. Certain viral infections like influenza have vaccines. You can have yourself vaccinated against certain viral infections to increase your body's immunity against these.

Also, increasing your body's immunity against viruses is the key principle in avoiding infections. Aside from vaccinations, you can increase your body's immunity by having a healthy lifestyle. If you are healthy, your body can effectively fight these viruses. A healthy body can be achieved through regular exercise, proper diet, and enough sleep. Eats lots of vegetables and fruits because these are rich in vitamins and minerals.

Certain infections are also common during specific months in a year. Like winter months are seasons of the common colds and flu. During these months, be extra cautious.

Furthermore, proper hygiene and frequent hand washing are very important to prevent from getting viral infections. If you are outdoors, always have a hand sanitizer or non-toxic wipes with you.

Keep your bodies hydrated as well. Drinking plenty of fluids is not only recommended for sick people. This is also very helpful to combat against infections.