Asthma – Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, Types, Home Remedies

Asthma is a chronic (lifetime) disease where normal breathing becomes difficult for the person. When there is excess of Mucus secretion from the airways due to inflammation and narrowing of airways, it leads to asthma. Asthma can be mild producing less symptoms or it can be major type causing serious problems in life. Though no cure is available for asthma, much of its symptoms can be managed by medications. Persistent coughing, wheezing and chest tightness are some of the symptoms of asthma and if not taken prompt treatment it can cause life threatening problems like asthma attack.

What are the Characteristics of Asthma?

Asthma gives you trouble by causing three major problems. One is blocking the airway. The muscles of the airways get tightened due to the presence of allergens or mucus secretion making it difficult for the air to move. This would lead to shortness of breath and a whistling sound is produced when the air passes through narrowed or tightened path, which is called wheezing.

Second is the inflammation of the bronchial tubes. The bronchial tubes become swollen and red causing damage to the lungs. Third is the irritability in the airway. The airways of asthmatic people are overly sensitive creating problem of breathing for them whenever they are exposed to dust, fumes, or pollen.

Asthma Symptoms :

Symptoms of asthma may not be the same for all people affected with it but there are few common symptoms. Persistent coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath and trouble in sleeping due to repeated coughing are some of the major symptoms of asthma.

Some people may develop these symptoms only when doing exercises and for some there will be symptoms when they are exposed to fumes or other allergens. It can cause great difficulty in breathing and hence they need to carry an inhaler on the go to prevent asthma attack. The symptoms of asthma may increase while exercising, while exposed to chemical fumes and allergens. Again the symptoms may worsen periodically and for some months they carry on without any symptoms.

Asthma Attack :

Asthma attack is a condition in which the muscles that surrounds the airways tighten or become stiff causing increased difficulty in breathing. It can lead to Bronchospasm causing inflammation of the airways and secreting more of mucus. Asthma attack can cause symptoms like continuous coughing, rapid breathing, severe wheezing, chest pain (due to tightened muscles), difficulty in talking, feelings of Anxiety and Excessive Sweating.

Types :

There are various types of asthma based on the factors that triggers the symptoms. Four major types of asthma are defined according to medical experts.

• Asthma Induced by Exercising :

Some people will develop asthma symptoms while they are doing exercises. It makes the person difficult to breathe due to narrowing of airways causing severe coughing and wheezing. The narrowing of airway begins within minutes of starting the exercise making the person uncomfortable.

• Cough Variant Asthma :

In this type of asthma, coughing severely is the only symptom. Cough can be the outcome of many factors like Sinusitis, Rhinitis, GERD, Heartburn and other factors.

• Workplace Asthma :

Here the triggering factor is the workplace where there would be exposure to smoke, fumes, and pollen. Farmers, painters, nurses and hairdressers are exposed to this type of asthma risk. They may get persistent coughing or wheezing causing difficulty in breathing.

• Nocturnal Asthma :

This is very common type of asthma wherein symptoms appear only during nighttime. Nocturnal asthma causes difficulty in sleeping due to cough and wheezing. Getting asthma attack during night is dangerous and affects the quality of sleep.

Asthma Causes :

What exactly triggers asthma is not yet known, but the symptoms occur due to inherited factors or environmental factors. The triggering factor differs from one person to another but for most of them airborne allergens like dust, smoke; pollen, mold, and animal dander induce major symptoms. Asthma can be caused by allergic foods like shellfish or peanuts or cow’s milk, soy and wheat products.

For some people, asthma symptoms may begin after respiratory infections or after exercising. Exposure to cold air, intake of certain medications like Ibuprofen or aspirin, involving in Stressful situations, and GERD are also other causes of asthma. For some women, onset of menstrual cycle can trigger symptoms of asthma each month. Smoking can worsen the symptoms of asthma causing irritant coughing and wheezing. An individual having lung infections like upper respiratory infections or sinusitis can develop asthma. These sorts of infections can become major cause of asthma in children. Bad weather, increased humidity and increased anxiety or stress can cause asthma.

Risk Factors :

Asthma can develop at any age but is more common among young adults. Obesity, exposure to passive smoking, exposure to chemical fumes, and workplace related triggering factors increase the risk of developing asthma. Genetics play a crucial role in asthma and you are likely to develop asthma if any of your parents already have it. The baby can develop asthma if the mother smokes during pregnancy. Complications can occur when a person has asthma attack. It may cause bad reputation owing to long period of absence at workplace. For some people, it may cause frequent visits to hospital and sometimes requiring inpatient treatment.

Diagnoses :

Your doctor will complete physical exam and check for the symptoms mentioned above. He may request for spirometry test for measuring lung functions. In addition he may recommend you for methacholine trigger test, imaging tests like chest X-ray, CT scan of lungs, and sputum analysis.

Asthma Treatment :

Your doctor will diagnose the type of asthma and determine exact cause that triggers it. He would prescribe medications to keep the symptoms in control. The set of medications will be combination of inhaled corticosteroids and bronchodilators. Many types of quick relief bronchodilators are effective in opening the blocked airway by relaxing the muscles.

The type of treatment depends on your age, intensity of symptoms and the type of asthma. Corticosteroids like mometasone, budesonide, fluticasone and flunisolide are very common inhalers prescribed for asthma. Leukotriene modifiers like Singulair and Zyflo are given for providing immediate relief from symptoms. Beta agonists like Foradil, Salmeterol and Perforomist are long acting inhalers. Theophylline is a cheap bronchodilator used for relaxing the muscles of airways.

Rescue remedies also come in the form of Atrovent, albuterol, levalbuterol and pirbuterol. For some people oral corticosteroids are prescribed in addition to inhalers. To prevent worsening of symptoms and to avoid asthma attack, these quick relief inhalers are highly useful. Allergy based asthma can be managed by immunotherapy and allergy medications. Your doctor will choose the right set of medications based on trial and error approach and you should continue using the medications as per the instructions of your doctor. Follow up is necessary at regular intervals to control the symptoms. Depending on your symptoms, he may reduce the dosage or increase it.

Self Care Approach :

You can always use a peak flow meter to prevent asthma attack and to detect serious symptoms. You can choose for asthma action plan in consultation with your doctor to monitor your symptoms and to manage it.

Lifestyle Changes :

You should identify the factors that trigger asthma and avoid it completely. Using air conditioner device helps in controlling airborne pollution and lowers the humidity level indoor. Keep your house clean and dust-free to minimize the risk of developing allergy related asthma. You can use dust-proof pillow covers and switchover to hardwood flooring instead of carpets. Using dehumidifiers can improve the temperature if you are living in damp climate.

Avoid pets if you are developing symptoms due to animal dander. Make it a practice to wear face-mask whenever you are going out to prevent air pollution. Eat healthy balanced diet, practice exercise regularly to manage your weight. Avoid foods that triggers reflux disease and heartburn. Alternatively, you can practice breathing techniques or go for acupuncture therapy for getting relief from symptoms.

Omega 3 fatty acids is found to reduce inflammation of airway muscles and few herbal remedies like pycnogenol and Indian frankincense can be used for controlling the symptoms. Living with asthma can be stressful and challenging. Share your feelings with your family and you may become depressed if you are forced to limit your outdoor activities. Join a support group and identify how others are dealing with challenges.

Prevention :

Get your vaccination done on time for Pneumonia and Influenza. Follow the action plan with your doctor. Avoid factors that trigger asthma attack. Eat healthy foods and practice yoga and meditation regularly. Monitor the symptoms using peak flow meter to prevent severe attack. Always carry quick relief inhalers with you to manage sudden asthma attacks.

What to Do in Case of Asthma Attack

What to Do in Case of Asthma Attack

Asthma attacks can be downright terrifying. If you or someone you love has asthma, you should visit a doctor at least once a year to talk about your symptoms and treatment options. But sometimes, even the best treatments can’t prevent an asthma attack. So it is very important to know what to do in case of asthma attack, either to help yourself or to help others who is suffering.Besides, you should also learn about the proper preventions and managements to reduce the risk of such attack.

What to Do in Case of Asthma Attack

When an asthma attack happens, panic is often the first response. Trying to stay calm will go a long way toward helping your treatments work. Here are other points to remember in case of asthma attack.

How to Help Yourself in Case of Asthma Attack

Sit down and take slow, steady breaths.

Take one or two puffs of your rescue inhaler and continue to breathe as steadily as you can.

Every few minutes, take another puff of your inhaler. Experts recommend that you take up to ten puffs.

If it doesn’t feel as though you are getting any better, call emergency services while you continue to treat the problem yourself.

How to Help Adults in Case of Asthma Attack

When an adult has an asthma attack, first ask them if they have an inhaler.

If they do, sit them in a comfortable place, loosen their clothing, try to keep them calm and help them use their inhaler.

If they don’t have an inhaler, quickly find an emergency kit if possible, and use an inhaler you find there. If you are in a public place, ask passersby if they might have an inhaler.

To help them use the inhaler, put the mouthpiece into their mouth, then ask them to breathe as deeply as they can while you press down to deliver a puff of medication. They should hold it in if they can.

Wait one minute between puffs, assuming more puffs are necessary.

This video will teach what to do when an adult is having an asthma attack

How to Help Children in Case of Asthma Attack

A child might not be able to articulate an asthma attack the way adults can, so it is important to swing into action immediately. Ask someone to call the child’s doctor, or call emergency services if they child is in diStress.

While you wait for help to arrive, keep the child calm.

If the child has a care plan, follow that.

Otherwise, ask the child to take four breaths from the inhaler.

Wait four minutes, see if there is improvement, then deliver another four puffs.

If you don’t have an inhaler, get one from an emergency kit or ask passersby if they have one.

This video will teach what to do when a child is having an asthma attack

Signs of Asthma Attack
When an asthma attack begins, your airway becomes swollen. This makes it tough to draw in a breath. It is important to understand what triggers your asthma attacks, the warning signs, and the symptoms that mean it’s time to head to the hospital.

1. Trigger Factors
Asthma is typically caused by an allergic reaction to something in the environment around you. What triggers asthma attacks varies from one person to another, but here are some of the most common triggers:

• Tobacco smoke, whether direct or second-hand


• Inhaling air that is cold and dry, such as during the wintertime


• Upper respiratory infections


• Strenuous exercise


• Pollen, pet dander, mold, Dust Mites and other similar irritants


• GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease

2. Warning Signs
There are often many warnings signs that occur before an asthma attack happens. By spotting these warning signs, you might be able to avoid an asthma attack, or prepare treatment that will make it easier to get through. Warning signs can include:

• Feel very weak while exercising


• Wheeze or cough after exercise


• Lose your breath easily


• Feel tired


• Have trouble sleeping


• Become very moody


• Blue lips or fingertips


• Become very pale


• Have trouble talking


• Breathe rapidly


• Feel an overwhelming sense of panic


• Neck and chest muscles might also become painfully tight.

How to Manage the Asthma Attack
When it comes to asthma, the ultimate goal is to avoid an attack in the first place. There are many natural solutions you can try that will help reduce the incidence or severity of asthma attacks. Here are just a few:

1. Daily Tips
Eat a very healthy diet, consisting of low fats, low dairy, plenty of organic foods and omega-3 fatty acids. Drink plenty of water. Look into remedies like deep tissue massage, avoid respiratory irritants and get treatment for any digestive problems, such as GERD.

2. Specific Tips for Exercise-induced Asthma
If your asthma is exacerbated by exercise, make sure to warm up very slowly, learn deep breathing techniques that can help keep your lungs clear, and look for activities that have rest periods, such as resting between tennis matches or softball innings. You can also look into exercises that allow you to go at your own pace yet still reap benefits, such as walking or swimming.

Asthma Home Remedies : Is It Possible To Manage Asthma Symptoms With Home Remedies?

Asthma Home Remedies : Is It Possible To Manage Asthma Symptoms With Home Remedies?






Asthma is a problem that causes difficulty in breathing. The airways get blocked due to inflammation causing reduced oxygen supply to the lungs. Asthma can cause symptoms of wheezing, repeated coughing and tightness of chest. In severe cases it can cause asthma attack. In America alone, about 26 million people have asthma. Asthma can limit your activity and working capacity and in some cases it can seriously affect the quality of life. But asthma can be managed with lifestyle changes and medical treatment.

1. Airway Obstruction

Allergy inducing substances like pollen, dust, smoke and respiratory virus can trigger the muscle that surrounds the airway making it tight. This can prevent normal flexible movement of air causing shortness of breath. Air movement through the airways gets contracted narrowing the airways, producing a whistling sound which causes symptoms of wheezing.

2. Swollen Bronchia

People with asthma, would develop severe inflammation in the bronchial tubes. In case swelling of bronchial tubes is not treated promptly it may cause damage to the lungs. Severe cases of asthma should be treated by medical approach but you can always use these home remedies alongside.

3. Ginger

Ginger is a natural agent that is widely used for many problems like cold, indigestion and asthma. Ginger helps in reducing inflammation in the airways clearing off the Mucus. Ginger also acts as a muscle relaxant.

• You can use ginger in many forms like ginger juice, ginger powder and ginger tea.


• Make a paste one tsp of ginger powder, honey and pomegranate juice. Take this mixture 2-3 times a day to control the symptoms of asthma.


• Drink ginger tea before bedtime to get quality sleep without Nasal Congestion and wheezing.


• Add fenugreek seeds and ginger powder in a cup of boiling water. Let it sit for few minutes. Drink this juice in empty stomach to get rid of asthma symptoms.


• Use ginger daily in your diet if you have asthma.

4. Mustard Oil

Heat few drops of mustard oil and rub it gently on your chest and upper back. This is an effective remedy for asthma. Mustard oil can clear off the respiratory tract so that you can breathe without any discomfort. Asthma attack can also be treated with mustard oil.

5. Figs

Figs serve as a natural remedy for asthma. Soak 2-3 figs in a cup of water and leave it for 5-6 hours. Take the figs preferably in empty stomach to get rid of accumulated phlegm from the lungs and nasal passage.

6. Garlic

Regular use of garlic in diet can help in reducing asthma symptoms. Nasal congestion and phlegm from the lungs can be cleared by taking garlic daily. You can eat garlic pods as such or mix garlic pods in a glass of warm milk and drink it.

7. Coffee

It is not known exactly how coffee helps in reducing asthma symptoms, but it helps in loosening the mucus. Drinking coffee can relax the airways thus helping you to breathe with comfort. People with asthma can take up to four cups of coffee daily (preferably black coffee).

8. Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus oil is highly effective for cold and asthma symptoms. All you have to do is to add few drops of this oil in a paper towel and place it in your forehead before going to sleep. Alternatively, you can inhale the steam containing few drops of eucalyptus oil for few minutes. This method gives relief from the lung congestion clearing off the nasal passage.

9. Honey

Honey is an effective home remedy for cold and asthma. Add few drops of honey in a cup of hot water and sip it slowly. You can repeat this remedy for 3-4 times a day. You can get uninterrupted sleep by taking honey with water before bedtime. Phlegm can be reduced considerably by drinking honey regularly along with cinnamon powder.

10. Onion

Nasal pathway can be cleared off the mucus with onion. Onion helps in reducing lung inflammation thus helping to overcome the symptoms of asthma. It can be taken in raw form or cooked form.

11. Lemon

Lemon adds up vitamin C level and antioxidants in your body. Getting more of antioxidants can help in reducing asthma and related symptoms. Drink the juice containing few drops of lemon extract (preferably warm). Fruits like papaya, oranges, and strawberries can be taken by people with asthma but avoid having other citrus fruits since it can aggravate your symptoms.

12. Carom Seeds

Carom seeds or ajwain is highly effective bronchodilator for asthma. It helps in dilating the bronchial tubes thus reducing the intensity of symptoms. Inhaling the steam containing carom seeds helps in relieving the signs of asthma.

Additional Tips :

• Keep your house clean and dust-free. Identify what exactly triggers asthma and avoid them totally. Clear off any kind of allergens and pollutants from your home.


• Include plenty of ginger, rosemary and turmeric in your diet.


• Eat fresh cod, salmon or mackerel at least twice a week.


• Take omega 3 fatty acid supplement daily.


• Avoid oily and spicy foods and eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.


• Reduce milk and other dairy products if you are lactose intolerant.


• Eat in smaller doses frequently instead of large hefty meals.


• Complete your dinner at least 2 hours before going to bed. Asthma attack gets triggered due to inflow of stomach acids.


• Practice deep breathing techniques regularly.


• Take precautions during winter months.


• And most importantly if you are suffering from chronic asthma, follow the instructions of your doctor and keep his/her number handy. Always carry the recommended inhaler in your bag while going out.

What to Do in Case of Asthma Attack

What to Do in Case of Asthma Attack

Asthma attacks can be downright terrifying. If you or someone you love has asthma, you should visit a doctor at least once a year to talk about your symptoms and treatment options. But sometimes, even the best treatments can’t prevent an asthma attack. So it is very important to know what to do in case of asthma attack, either to help yourself or to help others who is suffering.Besides, you should also learn about the proper preventions and managements to reduce the risk of such attack.

What to Do in Case of Asthma Attack

When an asthma attack happens, panic is often the first response. Trying to stay calm will go a long way toward helping your treatments work. Here are other points to remember in case of asthma attack.

How to Help Yourself in Case of Asthma Attack

Sit down and take slow, steady breaths.

Take one or two puffs of your rescue inhaler and continue to breathe as steadily as you can.

Every few minutes, take another puff of your inhaler. Experts recommend that you take up to ten puffs.

If it doesn’t feel as though you are getting any better, call emergency services while you continue to treat the problem yourself.

How to Help Adults in Case of Asthma Attack

When an adult has an asthma attack, first ask them if they have an inhaler.

If they do, sit them in a comfortable place, loosen their clothing, try to keep them calm and help them use their inhaler.

If they don’t have an inhaler, quickly find an emergency kit if possible, and use an inhaler you find there. If you are in a public place, ask passersby if they might have an inhaler.

To help them use the inhaler, put the mouthpiece into their mouth, then ask them to breathe as deeply as they can while you press down to deliver a puff of medication. They should hold it in if they can.

Wait one minute between puffs, assuming more puffs are necessary.

This video will teach what to do when an adult is having an asthma attack

How to Help Children in Case of Asthma Attack

A child might not be able to articulate an asthma attack the way adults can, so it is important to swing into action immediately. Ask someone to call the child’s doctor, or call emergency services if they child is in diStress.

While you wait for help to arrive, keep the child calm.

If the child has a care plan, follow that.

Otherwise, ask the child to take four breaths from the inhaler.

Wait four minutes, see if there is improvement, then deliver another four puffs.

If you don’t have an inhaler, get one from an emergency kit or ask passersby if they have one.

This video will teach what to do when a child is having an asthma attack

Signs of Asthma Attack
When an asthma attack begins, your airway becomes swollen. This makes it tough to draw in a breath. It is important to understand what triggers your asthma attacks, the warning signs, and the symptoms that mean it’s time to head to the hospital.

1. Trigger Factors
Asthma is typically caused by an allergic reaction to something in the environment around you. What triggers asthma attacks varies from one person to another, but here are some of the most common triggers:

• Tobacco smoke, whether direct or second-hand


• Inhaling air that is cold and dry, such as during the wintertime


• Upper respiratory infections


• Strenuous exercise


• Pollen, pet dander, mold, Dust Mites and other similar irritants


• Gerd, or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

2. Warning Signs
There are often many warnings signs that occur before an asthma attack happens. By spotting these warning signs, you might be able to avoid an asthma attack, or prepare treatment that will make it easier to get through. Warning signs can include:

• Feel very weak while exercising


• Wheeze or cough after exercise


• Lose your breath easily


• Feel tired


• Have trouble sleeping


• Become very moody


• Blue lips or fingertips


• Become very pale


• Have trouble talking


• Breathe rapidly


• Feel an overwhelming sense of panic


• Neck and chest muscles might also become painfully tight.

How to Manage the Asthma Attack
When it comes to asthma, the ultimate goal is to avoid an attack in the first place. There are many natural solutions you can try that will help reduce the incidence or severity of asthma attacks. Here are just a few:

1. Daily Tips
Eat a very healthy diet, consisting of low fats, low dairy, plenty of organic foods and omega-3 fatty acids. Drink plenty of water. Look into remedies like deep tissue massage, avoid respiratory irritants and get treatment for any digestive problems, such as GERD.

2. Specific Tips for Exercise-induced Asthma
If your asthma is exacerbated by exercise, make sure to warm up very slowly, learn deep breathing techniques that can help keep your lungs clear, and look for activities that have rest periods, such as resting between tennis matches or softball innings. You can also look into exercises that allow you to go at your own pace yet still reap benefits, such as walking or swimming.

Essential Oils for Asthma

Essential Oils for Asthma

Asthma is a disease that inflames the walls of passageways that supply air to the lungs. Inflamed airways are sensitive and complicate breathing. Common asthma symptoms include breathing problems, wheezing, coughing, and tightness in the chest. Asthma has no cure. Doctors identify thefactors that trigger asthmatic attacks or symptoms in each patient and help them avoid those factors. Doctors also prescribe medications including inhalers to manage the disease. Inhalers contain anticholinergics and beta agonists, which treat asthmatic attacks effectively. This article outlines some essential oils for asthma that are effective in preventing asthma attacks.

9 Essential Oils to Crack Asthma
1. Peppermint


Peppermint essential oil has decongestant and antihistamine properties that relieve asthma attacks. Exposure to allergens such as Dust Mites and pollen trigger your body to release histamines, which in turn trigger asthma attacks. Peppermint inhibits the release of histamine in your body.

How to apply: Combine 2 drops of peppermint essential oil with one drop of lemon, 8 drops of lavender, and 20 drops of carrier oil. You can use carrier oils such as sweet almond, olive or jojoba. Rub your chest using this mixture twice in a day to prevent asthma attacks.

2. Lavender


Lavender is one of the essential oils that have sedative and anti-inflammatory characteristics that are effective in managing asthma.

How to apply:

• Its use and application can be achieved by inhaling a combination of lavender and eucalyptus or peppermint, which can relieve mild asthma attacks.


• Another way of using lavender for asthma attacks is adding several drops of the oil into a bowl with hot water. Cover your head with a towel and inhale the steam from the bowl, which helps to clear your airways and cleanses your skin.

3. Roman Chamomile and Bergamot


Theseessential oils for asthma are antispasmodics. They relieve asthma symptoms by relieving muscle contractions that narrow bronchial passages. Roman chamomile and bergamot essential oils have sedative properties that relax the body. This relaxation is necessary because tension accompanies asthma attacks.

How to apply:Mix a few drops of bergamot and roman chamomile oils and use the mixture to rub your chest and back. The mixture relieves mild and severe asthma attacks.

4. Tea Tree Oil


Tea tree oil is an effective expectorant that removes mucous from your system. Mucous causes coughing and wheezing in asthma patients. The essential oil is also effective in relieving respiratory conditions such as coughing and Bronchitis.

How to apply:Using tea tree oil to treat asthma is simple. Place a clean face towel in warm water, wring, and add a few drops of tea tree oil on the damp, warm towel. Breathe through the warm towel until cool. Repeat the process until you feel relieved.

5. Eucalyptus


Eucalyptus oil has a strong scent that helps in decongesting airways. The oil contains eucalyptol, which breaks any phlegm and mucous in your system and allows you to breath easily.

How to apply:Adds a few drops of the oil to hot water, then breathe the steam from this combination to expand your congested airways and relax lung spasms.

6. Frankincense


Frankincense oil has expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties. The oil helps in decongesting lungs and nasal passages during an asthma attack. This essential oil is also useful in relieving anxiety, confusion, and Stress.

How to apply:One way of using frankincense oil is wafting its scent into the air using a reed diffuser. Alternatively, you can use the oil to rub your chest.

7. Oregano


Oregano oil has antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. It relieves breathing difficulties in asthmatic patients instantly when inhaled. Oregano oil is also effective in preventing respiratory tract infections.

How to apply:Combine 25 drops of the oil with 5oz of water in an atomizer bottle to make a mist and then inhale the vapor. Another way of using this essential oil is adding its drops to an essential oil diffuser with water.

8. Clove


Clove oil is one of the most effective essential oils for asthma. Clove oil has many properties that relieve asthma symptoms, which include antispasmodic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties. The oil helps in expanding constricted respiratory airways and relieving breathing difficulties in asthma patients.

How to apply:You can use a vaporizer or oil diffuser to diffuse clove oil in the air for about 20 minutes. Clove oil is also used as a chest rub. Rubbing clove oil directly to your skin may cause irritation. Instead, dilute the oil with water or almond oil before applying it on your skin.

9. Thyme Oil


Thyme essential oil is beneficial in boosting the immune system and strengthening the respiratory system with its antiseptic, antibacterial, and expectorant properties. In fact, it is effective in eliminating all asthmatic symptoms including coughing and colds.

How to apply:One way of using thyme oil is combining it with bergamot oil and using the mixture as a chest rub. An alternative way is to add thyme oil in hot water and breathe through the steam. This steam therapy eliminates breathing difficulties and reduces wheezing.

Tips for Safe Using
Using essential oils for asthma requires caution and safety. Strong odors trigger asthma symptoms and attacks. Hence, you must ensure that the fragrance of the essential oil you intend to use does not trigger your asthma symptoms. It is advisable to use therapeutic grade oils because they are safe when used in and on your body.

Another safety precaution when using essential oils is to start with a drop on your skin. Wait for a few minutes and check how your body reacts to the essential oil. You may avoid using the oil if you are sensitive to the oil or dilute it in carrier oil. Use essential oils in small amounts and seek advice from experts, books and other guideline on when and how an essential oil should be used.

Consult your doctor before using any essential oil as a new treatment for asthma.

Asthma Attack Treatment

Asthma Attack Treatment

You have an asthma attack or asthma exacerbation when your airways become inflamed and swollen. This happens when muscles around your airways tighten up and press on your bronchial or breathing tubes. This compression makes it difficult to breathe. An asthma attack can be quite minor and usually gets better with home treatment. It needs more attention and advanced treatment when an asthma attack is rather serious. A severe asthma attack can have life-threatening consequences. It is therefore important to recognize your triggers and identify asthma flare-up early to help resolve the issue with simple asthma attack treatment.

How to Tell If You Are Having an Asthma Attack
Before you try an treatment for asthma attack, it is important to confirm that you really have that issue. There are certain symptoms of an asthma attack, such as breathlessness, coughing, wheezing and tightness in the chest.

These symptoms may be mild or severe. If it is a mild attack, you may feel breathless only when you are walking. These symptoms become uncontrollable when you have a serious asthma attack. This usually calls for emergency treatment.

There are a number of symptoms of an asthma emergency, including trouble walking, feeling of breathlessness when not moving, bluish lips and fingernails. Some people have peak flow readings of below 50 % of their personal best and do not feel better even after using an inhaler. Other symptoms include unconsciousness, confusion, exhaustion and skin around the ribs looking "sucked in".

Immediate Relief
For immediate relief, you can try the following treatment options.

• Use your inhaler and take a couple of puffs immediately.


• Do not move and take slow, steady breaths.


• Use inhaler every couple of minutes if you do not feel better. It is okay to take up to 10 puffs at a time.


• Call emergency service if your symptoms do no improve after taking your inhaler.

Asthma Attack Treatments
You may feel better by trying some home treatment options for mild asthma attacks.

• Take Albuterol

Taking 2.5-5 mg of albuterol (Ventolin and ProAir HFA) may help. Take it every 20 minutes and continue for an hour.

• Take Oral Corticosteroid

You can take oral corticosteroid medical like prednisone to treat your asthma attack at home. Be sure to ask your doctor if you can take it to stop an asthma attack.

• Use Peak Flow Meter

You should use albuterol or another inhaler medication if your peak flow meter readings are between 50 % and 79 % during your personal best. Peak flow meter help check your lung function and it is important to use it regularly to notice any decline in your lung function in time.

Emergency Treatment
If you have a severe asthma attack, you will need emergency asthma attack treatment.

• Use Short-Active Beta Agonists

Use a nebulizer that turns albuterol into a mist and makes it much more effective.

• Take Oral Corticosteroids

Taking oral corticosteroids may help reduce lung inflammation. You may need to take corticosteroids intravenously to deal with severe asthma attacks.

• Use Ipratropium

You may use Ipratropium as a bronchodilator to reduce the severity of your asthma attack. This is a good option when you do not get desired results from albuterol.

• Mechanical Ventilation

When your asthma attack is very severe, your doctor will decide to put a breathing tube down your throat. They will then use a machine to pump oxygen into your lungs.

Asthma Attack Treatments without an Inhaler
There are certain treatmentoptions for asthma attack without an inhaler.

1. Call Emergency Services
You should call emergency service even if the inhaler works. It takes time to recover from a serious asthma attack, so immediate medical attention is necessary.

2. Take a Hot Shower
Turn on your shower and let hot water run for a few minutes. This will fill your bathroom with steam that will help make breathing easier.

3. Do Breathing Exercises
An asthma attack becomes more serious when you start to panic. Anxiety can make breathing heavier. It limits the amount of oxygen that gets to your lungs. Do not panic and breathe slowly. Breathe in through your nose slowly and breathe out while pursing your lips. This helps keep your airways open for long.

4. Try Common Household Drugs
Antihistamine or Allergy medicines help reduce the severity of your asthma attack, especially if the attack is associated with an allergen. The most common antihistamines are Benadryl, Allegra, Alavert, Claritin, Zyrtec and Chlor-Trimeton. Chamomil, ginger, Echinacea and saffron are all Natural Antihistamines, so drinking teas made using these ingredients may also help.

5. Take OTC Pseudoephedrine
You can always use a nasal decongestant like Sudafed. It is a good choice when your inhaler is not available. It helps open up your airways and makes breathing easier. Be sure to break the pill first and turn it into a powdery form. Add it to a cup of tea or warm water and drink to avoid choking.

Home Remedies to Reduce Asthma Attack
A number of home remedies often help prevent asthma attacks. For instance:

1. Ginger
Using ginger mixed with regular inhaled asthma medications may serve as an effective asthma attack treatment. It enhances airway dilation because ginger has compounds that reduce contraction of the muscles surround the airways.

2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Research shows that eating diet high in omega-3 may help reduce asthma attacks. You can eat more of salmon, walnuts and pumpkin seeds to provide your body with more omega-3 fatty acids.

3. Yoga
Doing yoga will help you learn different breathing techniques that in turn help reduce asthma attacks. You will learn the art of deep breathing that reduces hyperventilation and even improves airflow.

Allergy Induced Asthma

Allergy Induced Asthma

Asthma and allergies are among the most common chronic diseases in the United States. Even though both conditions are quite common, most people still ask if there is any relationship between the two. The truth is that there is an evident connection between these two conditions. In fact, the same substances that cause hay fever may also be responsible for causing asthma signs and symptoms. When left untreated, some allergies may turn into asthma. It is, therefore, important to have more information about allergy-induced asthma and understand how you can make your condition more manageable.

What Is Allergy Induced Asthma?


When your airways become extra sensitive to some allergens, you end up developing allergic asthma. Your immune system reacts to these allergens and tightens up the muscles around your airways. This leads to the inflammation of the airways and causes excessive buildup of thick Mucus in your airways in the long term. The symptoms of both allergic and non-allergic asthma are usually the same and include wheezing, coughing, quick breathing and chest congestion. You are more likely to develop allergic asthma if you have hay fever or have a family history of allergies.

What Causes Allergy Induced Asthma?
As mentioned, an exposure to certain allergens will lead to the development of allergy induced asthma. Some of these allergens are so small, which can be breathed into the lungs, such as dust mite feces, windblown pollen from grasses, animal dander, mold spores, and cockroach feces.

Bear in mind that allergens can definitely trigger an allergic reaction, but you may also have an asthma attack by being exposed to certain irritants such as air pollution, dusty rooms, cold air, tobacco smoke, perfumes, strong chemical odors, and exercise in cold air.

How to Treat Allergy Induced Asthma
Although it is not possible to treat it completely because it's an immune response to certain allergens, there are certain medications and other treatment options that will make your condition more manageable.

1. Medications
Certain medications will help control your allergy induced asthma symptoms. For instance:

• Beta agonists: These medications help relax your airways to improve your breathing as well as the asthma. You have to inhale these tablets to make them more effective, but you can also take them as syrup or tablet. For rapid relief, you can opt for short-acting forms of these medications, such as levalbuterol and albuterol.


• Ipratropium: You also need to inhale this medication to relax your airways. It works differently from beta agonists because it blocks signals responsible for the tightening up of your airways. As it works quickly, many healthcare providers use it to treat an acute asthma attack. It is sometimes combined with beta-agonists to be more effective.


• Corticosteroids: Used to block your body's inflammatory response, corticosteroids help alleviate the inflammation caused by an overactive immune system. Inhaled corticosteroids, such as beclomethasone, fluticasone and budesonide, are effective, but are used only for long-term treatment of allergy-induced asthma. Intravenous corticosteroids are usually effective when you want to treat severe asthma attacks.


• Leukotriene modifiers: These medications are also commonly used to treat allergy-induced asthma symptoms. It works by interfering with leukotrienes, a class of immune signals that lead to asthma. Zileuton and montelukast are some of the most common leukotriene modifiers.


• Theophylline: Available as a pill, you need to take it once a day to treat your asthma symptoms. It reduces chronic asthma symptoms by helping your airways muscles to relax. The medication is available in a number of different formulations and is usually taken every 24, 12, 8 or 6 hours. You have to take it even when you don't experience any asthma symptoms because it is used as a long-term treatment option for allergic asthma.


• Anti-IgE therapy: Molecules, known as allergens, are responsible for causing allergy induced asthma. These molecules bind to protein called IgE antibodies. These antibodies bind to allergens and release chemical signals that trigger an allergic reaction. To treat your moderate or severe asthma symptoms, you may consider going for anti-IgE therapy. The aim is to block the activation of IgE antibodies to prevent an allergic reaction.

2. Allergy Shots
A treatment option called immunotherapy involves getting allergy shots, but that usually works for people with mild asthma. These allergy shots have small amounts of a substance that triggers an allergy response. The idea is to help your immune system get faMiliar with that substance, so it doesn't react the next time you're being exposed to it. Allergy shots may work greatly for some people and even help improve asthma symptoms to some extent. It is three approved under-the-tongue tablets, including Ragwitek, Grastek and Oralair that you can take in the comforts of your home. These prescription tablets work greatly to treat hay fever and improve your tolerance of allergy triggers.

How to Prevent Allergens for Allergy Induced Asthma
Once you have developed allergy-induced asthma, you will have to use certain treatment options and make some changes to your lifestyle to limit your exposure to certain allergens. Here's a bit more about what you can do in this regard:

• Keep track of pollen count in your area and stay inside if it's high. Keep your windows closed and if possible, use an air conditioner to filter air. Avoid using an air conditioner that smells moldy or musty.


• Dust Mites are microscopic critters that flourish in your carpets and fabrics. Clean your carpets regularly and wrap your pillows in allergen-proof covers. Be sure to wash your bedding and sheets at least once every week in hot water.


• Make use of a dehumidifier if humidity level in your home is above 40%. Keeping humidity low is important to slow the growth of cockroaches, molds and dust mites.


• Keep your pet outdoors if you have pet allergies. Never allow them entry in your bedroom freely.


• Clean your bathroom and kitchen regularly to prevent cockroaches and mold. Use professional pest control services to get rid of cockroaches.


• Install a large HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) room filter in your home to get rid of pollen, smoke and other microscopic allergens. Wear protective gear with a HEPA filter mask when gardening to avoid breathing in mold and pollens.

Exercise Induced Asthma

Exercise Induced Asthma

Asthma can be a serious condition that causes long-term suffering and some frightening moments for those who deal with it. It is defined as a chronic inflammation of the lungs, specifically, of the bronchi. Those who have asthma might have symptoms that range from severe to mild, or they might not have symptoms on a regular basis at all.

Asthma is triggered by a variety of environmental factors and situations. Exercise is a very common reason why some people have an asthma attack. This is often known as exercise induced asthma, or the more technical name, an exercise induced Bronchospasm.

What Is Exercise Induced Asthma?
This kind of asthmais triggered by any sort of physical exertion, usually exercise. It is quite common; in fact, up to 90 percent of all of those who have asthma will also it. Those who are in their teenage years, as well as those who are young adults, might find that exercise is the most common trigger of an asthma attack. The good news is that proper medications and treatments can help those with asthma perform just as well as their peers when it comes to physical exercises.

Why Does Exercise Induce Asthma?
Much of exercise induced asthma can be attributed to the way we breathe during exercise. During normal breathing, the air moves through the nasal passages, which warms the air and gives it some moisture. But when you exercise, you breathe through your mouth, which means you are inhaling dry air that might be cooler than what you would breathe in through the nose. This cool, dry air irritates the very sensitive muscle bands around the airways. The result is a tightening of the chest, wheezing, coughing and other signs that are associated with an oncoming asthma attack.

Coughing is usually the first sign of exercise induced asthma, and for some people, it might be the only symptom. This usually begins during exercise but actually becomes worse right after you slow down and stop exercising. If you are patient, the symptoms can resolve within 30 minutes after exercise; however, sometimes there is a “late phase” asthma reaction, which means you might have symptoms four to twelve hours after you have exercised. Though these symptoms are less severe than those that begin during exercise, they take much longer – up to 24 hours – to go away.

How to Manage Exercise Induced Asthma
Exercise induced asthma might make you tempted to avoid physical activity, but that causes harm to your body in the long run.You definitely need to exercise like anyone else, but you don’t want to have the symptoms of asthma, or a full-blown asthma attack – so, what can you do? The best plan is to prevent and manage your symptoms.

1. Medications
There are many medications that can help control your asthma symptoms. When you have exercise induced asthma, it often makes sense to take medications on a long-term basis for control, as well as medications that you take right before exercise.

• ŸPre-exercise medications.These medications are designed to be taken within a certain amount of time before you begin exercise. Ask your doctor about the proper timing.

Medication	Description
Short-acting beta agonists	These are inhaled drugs that can be used for brief periods of time; however, longer uses can build up a tolerance. The most common of these drugs are albuterol, levalbuterol and pirbuterol.
Ipratropium	This inhaled medication has been proven to help some people, while others don’t seem to react well to it. If you do test this out, be prepared for some symptoms if you are one of the unlucky ones who don't react to the drug.

• ŸLong-term control medications.These medications are designed to be taken on a regular basis, usually once a day. They help keep asthma under control at all times, not just when you are exercising – though they do help you avoid exercise induced asthma.

Medication	Description
Inhaled corticosteroids	These are some of the most common inhaled drugs for asthma, and include fluticasone, mometasone, budesonide and beclomethasone. You must take the drug for at least two to four weeks before the maximum benefits kick in.
Combination inhalers	These inhalers include a combination of corticosteroids and long-acting beta agonists. Though these are meant for long-term control, your doctor might advise you to take the daily dose before you exercise.
Leukotriene modifiers	These oral medications block inflammation in the body, and can be used on a daily basis. If they are used for exercise induced asthma, they must be taken about two hours in advance of activity.

2. Warm-Up
When you are ready to exercise, make sure your body is, too. Warming up with walking, stretching, flexibility exercises or other light activity that gets your muscles awake and your heartbeat up can be very helpful. Do warming up for at least five to ten minutes before vigorous exercise.

3. OtherTips
There are other ways to help prevent or reduce exercise induced asthma. These include wearing a face mask or scarf while exercising in the cold weather, breathing through your nose as much as possible, working out in a warm place, restricting exercise when you are sick with a cold or the flu, limiting exercise during days of high pollen count or high air pollution, etc.

What Types of Exercises Are Best for People with Exercise Induced Asthma?
With proper treatment, most people can engage in the majority of sports available. However, there are some that are definitely more suitable than others for those with exercise induced asthma. Swimming is considered an optimum sport, since it happens in a warm, moist environment that is unlikely to trigger reactions. Other sports include those that entail short bursts of energy, such as basketball, volleyball or baseball.

Sports to avoid include those that are done mostly in cold weather, such as ice hockey or ice skating. It might also be a good idea to avoid very aerobic sports, such as soccer or distance running.

How to Prevent Asthma

How to Prevent Asthma

Asthma is a medical illness characterized by narrowing and swelling of airways along with production of extra Mucus. This can cause difficulty of breathing, coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing and other symptoms. Asthma can be minor for some, but is a major illness in many that can interfere with daily activities of life. A life-threatening asthmatic attack may occur in some patients. The symptoms of asthma can be controlled. Since, the signs and symptoms of asthma may change with each attack, it is imperative that you discuss with your doctor about your particular symptoms and adjust treatment as needed.

How to Prevent Asthma
There is no cure available for asthma but it can be prevented. Here are the main methods of preventing asthma.

1. Limit Triggers

• If you are allergic to pet dander, it is recommended to not keep a pet. But the risk of developing asthma can be reduced if children are exposed to pets at a very young age. Moreover, kids who live with two or more pets have a reduced likelihood of reacting to allergens.


• If you suffer from exercise-induced asthma or you are planning to do vigorous exercises or do exercise in humid, cold or dry environments, it is important to follow the advice of your doctor regarding asthma treatment, which is usually done by using an inhaler with the drug albuterol as ingredient.


• Asthma sufferers who also have allergies to pollen or pollution should limit their activities outside when the pollution index or the pollen count is high.

2. Purify Your Environment
You can make your home allergen free such as pollen, mold, dust, mites, etc. by using air filters. HEPA or High efficiency particulate air filters are used in the best systems. These systems can clear 99.9% of the air pollutants, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. You should also use humidifiers in your home. Humidifiers increase the moisture in the air using water vapor. Humidifiers can help in easing the symptoms of asthma in some sufferers.

3. Get Allergy Treatment
How to prevent asthma? Keep your allergy at bay! If you suffer from both asthma and allergies, it is important to reduce your exposure to allergens as it can increase the susceptibility of having an asthma attack.

• Minimize your exposure to all types of smoke such as tobacco, candles, incense, fireworks and fire. Make your home or car a smoking-free zone and also avoid public places where smoking is allowed. Quit smoking because asthma is always made worse by smoking.


• Take specific measures to allergy proof your environment at work, home or while travelling. This way you can reduce your risk of having asthma. For example, if you have to travel, you should ask the hotel for a smoking-free room and even get your own pillow and beddings because the down comforters and feather pillows hotel provides can have lots of Dust Mites hide in them, causing asthma attacks.


• You can also consider getting allergy shots or immunotherapy to prevent symptoms of allergy. Allergy shots can help in preventing or worsening of asthma symptoms. In this case, a small dose of allergens is injected into your skin regularly. And after sometimes, your body may get used to it and react less aggressively when exposed.

4. Get a Flu Shot
Getting infected with the flu virus makes the signs and symptoms of asthma worse over a period of several days to even weeks; hence, you should avoid being in close contact to individuals who suffer from a cold or flu attack. Take precautions such as washing your hands frequently to avoid infection. Besides, it is important to get a flu vaccine every year.

The chances of having flu complications including Pneumonia are also increased in asthma patients. Flu can also increase the incidence of hospitalization in asthma sufferers. Moreover, adults of age greater than 19 years should receive a pneumonia vaccine, referred to as pneumovax once in every 5 to 10 years. The chances of having pnemococcal pneumonia are increased two times in patients suffering from asthma.

5. Take Preventative Medicines
Taking preventative medicines on a regular basis helps in preventing attacks. Medicines may be taken as an inhaler, orally or through an injection. The common medicines used to prevent asthma are:

• Inhaled corticosteroids block inflammation just like natural hormones. They have long term adverse use, therefore, not recommended for longer use.


• Leukotriene modifiers work by inhibiting the effect of leukotrienes – chemicals released by white blood cells causing constriction of air passages.


• Beta agonists are used to prevent asthma attacks triggered by sports activities and exercise. These medicines work by dilating the air passages.

6. Maintain Healthy Weight
How to prevent asthma? Maintain healthy body weight. Obesity can aggravate asthma; therefore, maintain healthy weight by following a diet and exercise regimen. BMI or body mass index is used to define obesity. A person with BMI between 25 and 29.9 falls in the category of overweight and a person with BMI more than 30 falls in the category of obese. Decrease the number of calories you ingest and increase the amount of calories you burn. Keep check of your portion size. Eat slowly, chewing and savoring every bit of your food and stop eating upon feeling full.

7. Do Regular Exercise
According to research, exercise imparts a positive effect on asthma; therefore, regular exercise as tolerated should be done. Persons having exercise-induced asthma should avoid exercising in very dry, humid or cold environments. The common exercises that are good for asthma sufferers include cycling, walking, hiking and swimming. Yoga is good to increase fitness. It also helps to regulate your breathing. It is recommended to always keep your inhaler handy at all times. You can use your inhaler in case you feel that the workout will bring an attack.

8. Other Preventive Methods
Apart from the tips discussed above, there are some other methods that can be used to answer the question how to prevent asthma:

• Discuss a detailed plan for managing your asthma attack and taking medicines with your health care team and doctor. Ensure that you follow the plan. Asthma is a chronic condition that requires regular treatment and monitoring.


• Be aware of your breathing. You can learn the beginning signs such as wheezing, slight coughing or shortness of breath of an impending asthma attack. However the function of your lungs may be reduced before you experience any symptom or sign, it is recommended to measure and record your peak airflow regularly with a peak air flow meter that can be used at home.

Note: If you are relying more on your quick-relief inhaler including albuterol, you have uncontrolled asthma. Visit your doctor and discuss adjusting your treatment.

Nursing Diagnosis for Asthma

Nursing Diagnosis for Asthma

Asthma is a common medical condition in which the airways swell, produce copious amounts of Mucus, and become narrow. These events can trigger wheezing, coughing and make it difficult for a person to breathe.

Although some people only experience mild symptoms of asthma, others may have significant problems with their breathing, which may interfere with their daily activities. A few patients also experience life-threatening asthmatic attacks, which need immediate medical attention.

There is no cure for asthma, but your symptoms can be treated. For nurses, making a nursing diagnosis for asthma can help them recognize a patient's needs and plan for their care.

What Is Nursing Diagnosis?
Nursing diagnosis is based on a nurse's clinical judgment about a patient's actual or potential problems or life processes related to the disease. It provides the nurse a basis for selecting nursing interventions to improve patient outcome, for which he/she has accountability. This is different from a medical diagnosis, based on a doctor's evaluation of a patient's pathological condition, which may need pharmacological/non-pharmacological treatments.

7 Nursing Diagnosis for Asthma

1. Ineffective Airway Clearance
Ineffective airway clearance related to asthma results from the body's overproduction of antibodies and release of chemicals, which trigger tightening of the airways (Bronchospasm), a major characteristic of asthma. This is often coupled with mucus buildup, which plugs the airways, causing ineffective clearance of the airways.

Symptoms

• Anxiety


• Changes in the rate and depth of respiration


• Chest tightness


• Coughing


• Cyanosis


• Difficulty breathing


• Loss of consciousness


• Persistent cough with/without sputum


• Rapid breathing


• Rapid pulses


• Restlessness


• Use of accessory muscles in the chest


• Wheezing

Interventions

• ŸAdminister medications and nebulization as ordered.


• ŸAssist the patient in expelling mucus (postural drainage).


• ŸEncourage the patient to use diaphragmatic breathing and practice coughing exercises.


• ŸEnsure adequate hydration.


• ŸTeach patient to recognize early signs of infection to be reported to their health care provider.


• ŸTeach the patient to avoid respiratory irritants like aerosols, cigarette smoke, fumes, andextremes of temperature.

2. Ineffective Breathing Pattern
This nursing diagnosis for asthma is due to the presence of mucus in the airways (bronchi), which results in blockage of air to the lungs and the body. Inability to keep the airways clear due to bronchospasm is caused by stimulation of the receptors and chemical mediators, which are released in the presence of irritants or allergens.

Symptoms

• Anxiety


• Chest tightness


• Coughing


• Cyanosis


• Difficulty breathing


• Loss of consciousness


• Rapid breathing


• Rapid pulses


• Restlessness


• Wheezing

Interventions

• Assess the patient's respiration with regards to depth, rate, and rhythm.


• Auscultate the patient's breath sounds and assess his breathing pattern.


• Elevate the head of the bed and change the patient's position every two hours.


• Encourage the patient to limit physical activities and to rest.


• Ensure adequate hydration.


• Encourage the patient to do deep breathing and practice coughing exercises.


• Monitor the patient's vital signs.


• Reinforce a diet that is low in salt and low in fat.


• Teach the patient to do diaphragmatic breathing and pursed-lip breathing.


• Use pulse oximetry.

3. Impaired Gas Exchange
Thisnursing diagnosis for asthma relates to the decreased amount of air that is exchanged during inspiration and expiration. Ventilation is impaired in spite of adequate perfusion in the lungs.

Symptoms

• Altered consciousness


• Anxiety


• Changes in arterial blood gases (ABGs)


• Chest Tightness


• Coughing, with yellow sticky sputum


• Cyanosis


• Dyspnea


• Rapid breathing


• Rapid pulses


• Restlessness


• Wheezing

Interventions

• Assess the patient's respiration with regards to depth, rate, and rhythm.


• Auscultate the patient's breath sounds and assess his breathing pattern.


• Elevate the head of the bed and change the patient's position every two hours.


• Encourage the patient to limit physical activities and to rest.


• Ensure adequate hydration.


• Encourage the patient to do deep breathing and practice coughing exercises.


• Monitor the patient's vital signs.


• Reinforce a diet that is low in salt and low in fat.


• Teach the patient to do diaphragmatic breathing and pursed-lip breathing.

4. Fatigue
This nursing diagnosis for asthma relates tofluid accumulation in the lungs, which reduces their ability to expand and makes breathing difficult. The patient uses his accessory muscles to support breathing, but this results in a feeling of tiredness and fatigue.

Symptoms

• Decreased performance


• Generalized weakness


• Inability to do usual routines


• Lethargy


• Reduced concentration


• Tiredness


• Verbal expression of extreme lack of energy

Interventions

• Alternate activities with rest periods.


• Assist patient to identify coping behaviors.


• Avoid unpleasant topics that may upset the patient.


• Discuss the patient's need for activity. Create a schedule with the patient and identify the activities that may lead to fatigue.


• Encourage the patient to limit physical activities and to rest.


• Establish rapport.


• Increase the patient's participation in activities of daily living (ADL) as tolerated.


• Monitor the patient's vital signs before and after activities.


• Monitor the patient's vital signs.


• Provide an environment that helps to relieve fatigue.

5. Activity Intolerance
This nursing diagnosis for asthma relates to inadequate oxygen in the body, which can lead to weakness in the muscles. The patient is not able to tolerate activities due to low oxygenation resulting from inadequate lung expansion.

Interventions

• Assess the patient's motor function.


• Assist the patient in performing self-care.


• Elevate the patient's arms and hands.


• Evaluate the patient's ability to stand and move around.


• Evaluate the patient's degree of deficit.


• Gradually increase activities and exercise; assist the patient in doing passive to active and full range of motions.


• Monitor the patient's vital signs before and after activities.


• Observe factors that may contribute to fatigue.


• Place the patient's knees and hips in an extended position.


• Plan nursing care with rest periods between activities.


• Provide adequate periods for rest.

6. Anxiety
This nursing diagnosis for asthma relates tothe patient's perception of a crisis situation, change in health status, and threat to life.

Symptoms

• Apprehension


• Fearful expression


• Extraneous movements

Interventions

• Create a relaxed mood and use a relaxed facial expression.


• Encourage patient to relax and control respiration by drawing deep breaths.


• Encourage the patient to assume a relaxed position.


• Explain care procedures to the patient.


• Instruct the family to act as a support system for the patient during an asthma attack.


• Listen to the patient.

7. Imbalanced Nutrition
This nursing diagnosis for asthma relates to a patient's having less than body requirements due to shortness of breath and activity intolerance.

Symptoms

• Inability to eat related to respiratory diStress


• Anorexia leading to Weight Loss

Interventions

• Collaborate with the nutritionist for the patient's favorite meals.


• Encourage patient to eat frequent, small meals.


• Evaluate the patient's food preferences and diet recommendation.


• Limit visitations during mealtimes.


• Monitor patient's oral intake and add parenteral nutrition if insufficient.


• Provide a relaxed atmosphere for dining.

Asthma

Asthma






Asthma is a chronic (lifetime) disease where normal breathing becomes difficult for the person. When there is excess of mucus secretion from the airways due to inflammation and narrowing of airways, it leads to asthma. Asthma can be mild producing less symptoms or it can be major type causing serious problems in life. Though no cure is available for asthma, much of its symptoms can be managed by medications. Persistent coughing, wheezing and chest tightness are some of the symptoms of asthma and if not taken prompt treatment it can cause life threatening problems like asthma attack.

What are the Characteristics of Asthma?

Asthma gives you trouble by causing three major problems. One is blocking the airway. The muscles of the airways get tightened due to the presence of allergens or mucus secretion making it difficult for the air to move. This would lead to shortness of breath and a whistling sound is produced when the air passes through narrowed or tightened path, which is called wheezing.

Second is the inflammation of the bronchial tubes. The bronchial tubes become swollen and red causing damage to the lungs. Third is the irritability in the airway. The airways of asthmatic people are overly sensitive creating problem of breathing for them whenever they are exposed to dust, fumes, or pollen.

Asthma Symptoms :

Symptoms of asthma may not be the same for all people affected with it but there are few common symptoms. Persistent coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath and trouble in sleeping due to repeated coughing are some of the major symptoms of asthma.

Some people may develop these symptoms only when doing exercises and for some there will be symptoms when they are exposed to fumes or other allergens. It can cause great difficulty in breathing and hence they need to carry an inhaler on the go to prevent asthma attack. The symptoms of asthma may increase while exercising, while exposed to chemical fumes and allergens. Again the symptoms may worsen periodically and for some months they carry on without any symptoms.

Asthma Attack :

Asthma attack is a condition in which the muscles that surrounds the airways tighten or become stiff causing increased difficulty in breathing. It can lead to Bronchospasm causing inflammation of the airways and secreting more of mucus. Asthma attack can cause symptoms like continuous coughing, rapid breathing, severe wheezing, chest pain (due to tightened muscles), difficulty in talking, feelings of anxiety and Excessive Sweating.

Types :

There are various types of asthma based on the factors that triggers the symptoms. Four major types of asthma are defined according to medical experts.

• Asthma Induced by Exercising :

Some people will develop asthma symptoms while they are doing exercises. It makes the person difficult to breathe due to narrowing of airways causing severe coughing and wheezing. The narrowing of airway begins within minutes of starting the exercise making the person uncomfortable.

• Cough Variant Asthma :

In this type of asthma, coughing severely is the only symptom. Cough can be the outcome of many factors like Sinusitis, Rhinitis, GERD, Heartburn and other factors.

• Workplace Asthma :

Here the triggering factor is the workplace where there would be exposure to smoke, fumes, and pollen. Farmers, painters, nurses and hairdressers are exposed to this type of asthma risk. They may get persistent coughing or wheezing causing difficulty in breathing.

• Nocturnal Asthma :

This is very common type of asthma wherein symptoms appear only during nighttime. Nocturnal asthma causes difficulty in sleeping due to cough and wheezing. Getting asthma attack during night is dangerous and affects the quality of sleep.

Asthma Causes :

What exactly triggers asthma is not yet known, but the symptoms occur due to inherited factors or environmental factors. The triggering factor differs from one person to another but for most of them airborne allergens like dust, smoke; pollen, mold, and animal dander induce major symptoms. Asthma can be caused by allergic foods like shellfish or peanuts or cow’s milk, soy and wheat products.

For some people, asthma symptoms may begin after respiratory infections or after exercising. Exposure to cold air, intake of certain medications like Ibuprofen or aspirin, involving in stressful situations, and GERD are also other causes of asthma. For some women, onset of menstrual cycle can trigger symptoms of asthma each month. Smoking can worsen the symptoms of asthma causing irritant coughing and wheezing. An individual having lung infections like upper respiratory infections or sinusitis can develop asthma. These sorts of infections can become major cause of asthma in children. Bad weather, increased humidity and increased anxiety or stress can cause asthma.

Risk Factors :

Asthma can develop at any age but is more common among young adults. Obesity, exposure to passive smoking, exposure to chemical fumes, and workplace related triggering factors increase the risk of developing asthma. Genetics play a crucial role in asthma and you are likely to develop asthma if any of your parents already have it. The baby can develop asthma if the mother smokes during pregnancy. Complications can occur when a person has asthma attack. It may cause bad reputation owing to long period of absence at workplace. For some people, it may cause frequent visits to hospital and sometimes requiring inpatient treatment.

Diagnoses :

Your doctor will complete physical exam and check for the symptoms mentioned above. He may request for spirometry test for measuring lung functions. In addition he may recommend you for methacholine trigger test, imaging tests like chest X-ray, CT scan of lungs, and sputum analysis.

Asthma Treatment :

Your doctor will diagnose the type of asthma and determine exact cause that triggers it. He would prescribe medications to keep the symptoms in control. The set of medications will be combination of inhaled corticosteroids and bronchodilators. Many types of quick relief bronchodilators are effective in opening the blocked airway by relaxing the muscles.

The type of treatment depends on your age, intensity of symptoms and the type of asthma. Corticosteroids like mometasone, budesonide, fluticasone and flunisolide are very common inhalers prescribed for asthma. Leukotriene modifiers like Singulair and Zyflo are given for providing immediate relief from symptoms. Beta agonists like Foradil, Salmeterol and Perforomist are long acting inhalers. Theophylline is a cheap bronchodilator used for relaxing the muscles of airways.

Rescue remedies also come in the form of Atrovent, albuterol, levalbuterol and pirbuterol. For some people oral corticosteroids are prescribed in addition to inhalers. To prevent worsening of symptoms and to avoid asthma attack, these quick relief inhalers are highly useful. Allergy based asthma can be managed by immunotherapy and allergy medications. Your doctor will choose the right set of medications based on trial and error approach and you should continue using the medications as per the instructions of your doctor. Follow up is necessary at regular intervals to control the symptoms. Depending on your symptoms, he may reduce the dosage or increase it.

Self Care Approach :

You can always use a peak flow meter to prevent asthma attack and to detect serious symptoms. You can choose for asthma action plan in consultation with your doctor to monitor your symptoms and to manage it.

Lifestyle Changes :

You should identify the factors that trigger asthma and avoid it completely. Using air conditioner device helps in controlling airborne pollution and lowers the humidity level indoor. Keep your house clean and dust-free to minimize the risk of developing allergy related asthma. You can use dust-proof pillow covers and switchover to hardwood flooring instead of carpets. Using dehumidifiers can improve the temperature if you are living in damp climate.

Avoid pets if you are developing symptoms due to animal dander. Make it a practice to wear face-mask whenever you are going out to prevent air pollution. Eat healthy balanced diet, practice exercise regularly to manage your weight. Avoid foods that triggers reflux disease and heartburn. Alternatively, you can practice breathing techniques or go for acupuncture therapy for getting relief from symptoms.

Omega 3 fatty acids is found to reduce inflammation of airway muscles and few herbal remedies like pycnogenol and Indian frankincense can be used for controlling the symptoms. Living with asthma can be stressful and challenging. Share your feelings with your family and you may become depressed if you are forced to limit your outdoor activities. Join a support group and identify how others are dealing with challenges.

Prevention :

Get your vaccination done on time for Pneumonia and Influenza. Follow the action plan with your doctor. Avoid factors that trigger asthma attack. Eat healthy foods and practice yoga and meditation regularly. Monitor the symptoms using peak flow meter to prevent severe attack. Always carry quick relief inhalers with you to manage sudden asthma attacks.