Asthma comes from the Greek word meaning panting. If you have ever had been around someone who is having an attack, it is a traumatic experience that leaves you feeling helpless. If you can recognize some of the symptoms beforehand, there are procedures that can be done to lessen the severity of the episode. The more common symptoms are wheezing or a whistling noise when breathing, coughing, shortness of breath and tightening of the chest.
What Happens During an Attack?
If the symptoms of an Asthma attack goes undetected, then the individual starts to have troubles breathing. The airways that lead to the lungs start to get inflamed and cause spasms and swelling. The narrowing of the airways makes the individual feel like that can't breathe. Picture yourself in a room that provides less than enough oxygen for you to survive. It is a very frightening experience.
Things That Could Cause an Attack
Many studies have been done on contributing factors that cause Asthma flare ups. One obvious element is being around smokers and their second hand smoke. This is like poison to an asthmatic person. A bad pollution day that is caused by dangerous levels of toxic chemicals in the air. Another possible causing factor is when there are lots of allergens floating around during specific seasons.
How Is The Disease Contracted?
How does someone contract Asthma has been the million dollar question for decades. There are lots of theories, but no proven answers. Scientist have come up with 3 possible common attributes. One theory about the continuation of the disease is that it can be passed down through genetics. If your family tree produces asthmatics, then there is a chance that you could also be one. Another scientific thought comes from the environment. Low air quality from traffic pollution and high ozone levels could contribute in contracting the disease. The industrial age is thought to have brought this theory to life. Another quick study showed that families who smoked during child pregnancy could develop Asthma - like symptoms.
Managing Your Asthma
There is no known cure for Asthma. However, there are some simple ways to manage the symptoms. Be aware of high pollen days and try to stay inside. Try to avoid any smoke ridden areas. This includes any environmental or man-made fires. There are life style changes such as staying away from foods that contain sulfites and maintaining a recommended body weight. Keep your home's furnace clean and changed the filters every 60 to 90 days. Last but not least, make sure you take your medication as prescribed by your allergist.
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