Editorial Team
... Read More
By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookie Policy.
Written By: Editorial Team | Published : May 6, 2014 2:58 PM IST
May 6 is World Asthma Day.
India has an estimated 15-20 million asthmatics and doctors here feel that awareness and early diagnosis play a vital role in containing this chronic respiratory disease that has been surging fast in the last decade.
According to World Health Organisation estimates, between 100-150 million people worldwide suffer from asthma of which 15-20 million belong to India. As per a WHO report on World Asthma Day today, the fundamental cause of asthma, that is characterised by recurrent attacks of breathlessness and wheezing is not completely understood, but the strongest risk factors for developing asthma include indoor allergens like dust mites in bedding and carpets.
Outdoor allergens that may cause asthma include pollens, tobacco smoke and chemical irritants, it said. Dr Prahlad Prabhudesai, Chest specialist at Lilavati Hospital here cautioned that there may be some people who do not show qualities like breathlessness but may still be suffering from 'silent Asthma', which cannot be prevented as it is a hereditary disorder. (Read: Diagnosis and treatment of asthma)
'There is no medicine available to prevent asthma. Only the attacks can be prevented. There are some patients who do not show any qualities of being an asthmatic. People who frequently sneeze or periodically cough may also be asthmatic. They need to get a diagnosis done at the earliest,' he said. Speaking to PTI, Dr. Vyanketesh Joshi, Chief Trustee of Siddh Dhyan Foundation said that one can have a better chance of controlling asthma if diagnosed early. (Read: Self-care and prevention of Asthma)
[recom-stories]
'Asthma cannot be cured but it can be controlled. People suffering from asthma can learn to identify and avoid the things that trigger an episode and educate themselves about medication. With proper treatment, people with asthma can have fewer and less severe attacks,' Dr Joshi said. World Asthma Day is celebrated round the world on the first Tuesday of May. It was first celebrated by Global Initiative For Asthma (GINA) in 1998 after its first 'World Asthma Meeting' in 1998. The Day is celebrated in order to raise awareness among public worldwide about the precaution and prevention of this bronchial condition. (Read: World Asthma Day 2014: 11 tips to live well with asthma)
The theme of this year concentrates on cause and effects of asthma: 'You Can Control Your Asthma'.
What are the common drugs prescribed for asthma patients?
'There are 2 groups of medications for asthma preventers and relievers. Preventers are given on a long term basis for optimum control of asthma, whereas relievers act quickly and are given as and when required to relieve asthma symptoms.'
Preventers: They act by reducing inflammation, swelling and production of mucus in the airways. Types of medication in this group include inhaled corticosteroids, short-acting beta-agonists and leucotriene modifiers. Sometimes, a combination of steroid inhalers and long-acting agonists may be given. Oral corticosterioids like prednisone and methylprednisolone are prescribed in case of serious asthma attack.
Relievers: They are short-term but fast acting medications given to just relieve the symptoms of asthma. They work by relaxing the tight muscles around the airways to improve breathing in patients. They are given to patients who are more likely to get into the state of uncontrolled asthma. (Read: Medicines for asthma use, side-effects, overdose and interactions)
With inputs from PTI
You may also like to read:
For more articles on asthma, check out our asthma section. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for all the latest updates! For daily free health tips, sign up for our newsletter. And to join discussions on health topics of your choice, visit our forum.
