Suffering in the winter with asthma problems? Specialist doctors advise on control and prevention methods
Allergies, asthma, fever, cold, cough, and other types of diseases and infections start appearing as soon as winter falls. As a result, the cold period should be pleasant for everyone, but it is not at all. For those who have asthma, this is especially true. In fact, this problem increases a lot in the winter. But a senior consultant in respiratory medicine in Kolkata advises how to prevent this problem.
A significant noncommunicable disease (NCD) is asthma. It isn’t just observed in adults; it happens to everyone. Asthma issues can also affect children. It is also the most prevalent chronic lung condition among youngsters. What exactly takes place with this illness? As a result of this illness, the airways swell and narrow. Additional mucus is also produced. And all of these factors make breathing quite uncomfortable.
Asthma sufferers must adjust to certain things when the seasons change. Changes in temperature are one of them. New irritants also enter the atmosphere along with this. This can multiply the risk of a respiratory illness.
As a result, the airways are vulnerable to the dry, cold air that comes with winter and its causes. and as a result, the muscles of the airway spasm. Still, the airway makes an effort to remain open. As a result, the lungs experience reverse pressure. And as a result of this process, many asthma symptoms emerge. Coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and other symptoms of asthma include these. Asthma episodes are primarily brought on by all these factors.
This may exacerbate asthma in people who already have it. In addition, the weather poses an equal threat to people who are experiencing fresh asthma episodes. because breathing in cold air causes the airways to release histamine. And during an allergic reaction, our bodies generate the molecule known as histamine.
Winter causes for asthma, which are significantly more common:
The ability to manage our breathing is really challenging. In actuality, the air surrounding us changes with the seasons. Winter also brings various asthma triggers. The presence of cold air is a significant trigger. And as a result of all these triggers, asthma prevalence rises, which is where the lungs’ inflammation starts. Along with this, there is also bronchospasm (a rapid and sudden narrowing of the airways).
Pollen, mildew, moisture, and dust particles are potential winter triggers in addition to the chilly air. which are susceptible to chest infections, colds, and flu viruses. Despite being particularly prevalent in the winter, seasonal flu is the most dangerous cause. It intensifies asthmatic symptoms. When a person with asthma is exposed to cold and flu viruses, their chance of getting pneumonia increases significantly. So be mindful of each of these triggers and take note of any personal triggers you may have. so that the doctor can discuss things in an open manner to enable effective treatment. And the appropriate safety measures can be taken to avoid illness.
Are there any signs to be aware of?
The signs of issues like asthma or other conditions differ from patient to patient. Therefore, there are a few indicators to look out for during the winter. Shortness of breath, chest pain or stiffness, coughing, and wheezing while breathing are a few of them. Some asthmatics also have symptoms like coughing, a runny nose, a sore throat, nasal congestion, and mucous congestion. During the winter, it’s important to be aware of all these asthma triggers. Patients with asthma are often affected by illnesses like the flu. It is advised to see a doctor as soon as these symptoms develop.
How do inhalers help people with asthma manage their symptoms during the winter?
In fact, inhalers are a fairly successful asthma treatment. In addition to being quite good at controlling asthma, it is also very effective at easing its symptoms.
In reality, an inhaler is a device that delivers medication right to the lungs. This aids in airway relaxation and ensures that the patient can breathe without difficulty.
Small and moderate amounts are delivered directly into the airways with the aid of inhalers. As a result, the dosage is also lower, and there is a significantly lower likelihood of experiencing negative effects.
Inhalers aid in controlling asthma symptoms by providing both instant comfort and prevention. Additionally, it aids in illness prevention.
All ages are suitable for using inhalers. However, one thing should be remembered at all times. And that is, the inhaler must be used in accordance with the doctor’s instructions.
One thing to consider when giving children inhalers is that the inhaler should be used with a spacer device.
How can this condition be adequately managed over the winter?
Finding probable triggers and techniques to avoid them is the first step in preventing this illness. Fixing things should be done under the guidance of a doctor. Considering that it is among the most crucial elements A combination of rescue drugs—to be given for urgent, temporary relief—and maintenance medications make up this treatment approach. For long-term disease management, this drug should be taken every day. The treatment regimen should be carried out in accordance with the doctor’s recommendations, and even then, if the patient’s symptoms change, the doctor should be informed. This is crucial for both the prevention and management of disease.
According to the doctor’s recommendations, a rescue inhaler should also be used in addition to this. The name of the inhaler makes it obvious that it can stop this problem from getting worse.
In addition to this, the following safety precautions are advised:
Vaccination is crucial:
Annual flu shots are crucial in addition to routine vaccinations. To lower the risk of respiratory tract infections, it might even offer defense against pneumococcal pneumonia.
Has to stay at home:
Try to stay inside when the temperature suddenly drops dramatically. For instance, stay in bed around midnight or early in the morning.
Wearing a mask is recommended:
To avoid direct cold and dry air entering the respiratory system, a mask should be used. In fact, masks prevent this.
Drink hot liquid food:
The interior of the airways dries out in cold, dry air. As a result of the discomfort, more mucus is produced. As a result, consuming hot, liquid meals at this time might cause the body to create mucus and make the airways slick.
Houses should be free of dust:
Allergies should be eliminated by maintaining clean homes. It is advised to use a vacuum cleaner on occasion to keep the house’s interior dust-free.
Optimal Diet:
A healthy diet significantly affects asthma. Winter asthma can be managed with a diet high in vitamin C and vitamin D. Wintertime consumption of more ginger and garlic is crucial for asthmatics. mainly due to the anti-inflammatory characteristics of these two plants.
It is important to maintain hygiene:
It’s crucial to practise good hygiene in order to stop the transmission of viruses, illnesses, and colds. Regular hand washing with soap and water is necessary for hygiene.