Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that
can occur at any age but is most common in childhood. About 5 per
cent of adults and 20 per cent of children in Singapore suffer from
asthma, which is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic
and environmental factors.
A family history of asthma and allergies, and
exposure to infections or irritants in infancy may increase a
child’s risk of developing asthma. However, childhood asthma
doesn’t always extend into adulthood.
“Asthma goes into remission in some children
around puberty, but it often comes back. Sometimes, it returns when
young adults start drinking alcohol,” says Dr Aza Taha, Associate
Consultant, Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Changi General
Hospital.
Symptoms of
asthma
In asthma, inflammation causes the airways to
narrow and get clogged with thick mucus causing an attack. Common
asthma symptoms include:
Symptoms vary from individual to individual
based on the severity of the condition.
“Every asthmatic person has different triggers
that worsens their asthma symptoms or bring on an attack. It would
be ideal to identify the specific triggers and avoid them. Much of
asthma treatment is grounded on prevention,” says Dr Taha.
10 common
triggers for asthma attacks:
Managing
asthma with an action plan
Most asthma sufferers can lead a normal and
active lifestyle, provided they properly treat and manage their
condition. An asthma action or management plan can help to better
control the condition.
This written plan, which you develop with your
doctor, consists of a personalised set of instructions such as:
Asthma management also involves ensuring that
you have your medications, particularly your inhaler and other
emergency drugs, with you at all times since an attack can occur
suddenly.
“Severe asthma attacks can cause oxygen levels
to drop and even your heart to stop beating. In worst cases, it may
even lead to death,” says Dr Taha.
Asthma sufferers also need to visit their
doctor for regular check-ups and take the prescribed maintenance
medication to control their condition.
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