Triggers of asthma, everyday practices to handle the disease better: Doctor explains

Asthma isn't a disease that needs to stop anyone from being anything in life - even an extremely celebrated Olympic athletes of all time! US athlete Jackie Joyner Kersee's story is testimony to this fact. The three-time Olympic gold medallist competed in events while fighting the condition. She had the first asthma attack ever during her training session in college! Regardless, she found her way to handle the condition. The same goes for many successful actors, sportsmen, entertainers and more who didn't let the condition affect their success. What are some of the triggers of the disease and everyday practices to deal with it effectively? Dr Ann Mary Jacob, Senior Consultant Pulmonologist at SUT Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram, explains.

What is asthma?
Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease caused by long-term inflammation and airway narrowing. As these airways constrict, airflow decreases, making breathing difficult. The main symptoms include shortness of breath, wheezing (a whistling sound while breathing), chest pain and coughing that tends to worsen at night or in the early morning. Although asthma has no definitive cure, it can be effectively controlled with appropriate treatment and a well-managed lifestyle, allowing individuals to lead full and healthy lives.

Causes and triggers of asthma
Asthma develops as a result of a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Common triggers include:
● Dust and pollen
● Smoking and environmental pollution
● Dander and fur from pets such as dogs and cats
● Cold air
● Viral respiratory infections
● Emotional stress
● Exercise (exercise-induced asthma)
Identifying and avoiding these triggers is essential for effective disease control.

Asthma burden in India
The number of people affected by asthma in India is significantly high. Rapid urbanisation, vehicular pollution, indoor air pollution such as kitchen smoke and changing lifestyles are among the major contributing factors. In rural areas, the use of biomass fuels increases the risk of asthma, particularly among women and children. Limited access to healthcare services in certain regions, along with fear and misconceptions about inhaler medications, including steroid phobia, continue to hinder effective disease control.

Treatment and management of asthma
Asthma treatment primarily involves two types of medications:
1. Relievers, which provide immediate relief from symptoms
2. Controllers, which help in long-term management of the condition
Inhalers remain the most effective treatment, delivering medication directly to the airways for faster relief and better outcomes, with minimal side effects. Equally important is the correct inhaler technique, as improper use can significantly reduce the medication’s effectiveness.

Everyday practices for asthma control
Adopting changes in lifestyle can play a crucial role in managing asthma effectively:
● Completely avoid smoking
● Keep your home clean and free from dust
● Use a mask, especially in areas with high pollution
● Engage in moderate exercise
● Undergo periodic lung health check-ups as part of routine screening