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Asthma

Discussion in 'All Categories' started by Ghansham - Jul 20th, 2024 10:24 am.
Ghansham	I have asthma, are there any specific easy-to-use techniques that can help me? What medications do I need to take, and how do they work? Are there any side effects I should be aware of?
re: Asthma by Dr. B. S. Bhalla - Jul 20th, 2024 10:30 am #1
Dr. B. S. Bhalla	Asthma can be managed effectively with a combination of medication and lifestyle changes. Here are some easy-to-use techniques, medications, and their potential side effects: Techniques to Help Manage Asthma Breathing Exercises: Diaphragmatic Breathing: Breathe deeply using your diaphragm to increase lung capacity. Pursed Lip Breathing: Inhale through the nose and exhale slowly through pursed lips to help keep airways open. Using a Peak Flow Meter: Monitor your asthma control by measuring the airflow out of your lungs. Asthma Action Plan: Create a personalized plan with your doctor that includes daily management and how to handle asthma attacks. Avoid Triggers: Identify and avoid allergens or irritants like pollen, dust mites, smoke, and strong odors. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Regular exercise (with doctor’s advice), a healthy diet, and maintaining a healthy weight can improve overall lung function. Medications for Asthma Quick-Relief Medications: Short-Acting Beta Agonists (SABAs): Albuterol (ProAir HFA, Ventolin HFA). These provide immediate relief by relaxing the muscles around the airways. Side Effects: Nervousness, tremor, headache, rapid heartbeat. Long-Term Control Medications: Inhaled Corticosteroids: Fluticasone (Flovent), Budesonide (Pulmicort). These reduce inflammation in the airways over time. Side Effects: Hoarseness, oral thrush (rinse mouth after use to prevent). Long-Acting Beta Agonists (LABAs): Salmeterol (Serevent). Often combined with corticosteroids in a single inhaler (Advair, Symbicort). Side Effects: Headache, throat irritation, increased heart rate. Leukotriene Modifiers: Montelukast (Singulair). Taken orally to block inflammatory chemicals. Side Effects: Headache, dizziness, abdominal pain. Combination Inhalers: Contain both a corticosteroid and a LABA (Advair, Symbicort, Dulera). Side Effects: See above for individual components. Other Medications: Theophylline: Helps open airways (less commonly used). Side Effects: Nausea, headache, insomnia, rapid heartbeat. Biologics: For severe asthma, such as Omalizumab (Xolair), Mepolizumab (Nucala). Side Effects: Injection site reactions, increased risk of infection.