Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease caused due to inflammation in the airways. It affects millions of people worldwide, especially children. This lung disorder causes short gasping breaths, coughing, and wheezing and chest tightness. There is no clear reason yet why some people get asthma and others don’t, but it’s probably due to a combination of environmental and genetic factors.
What triggers an asthma attack?
• Airborne substances such as pollen and dust
• Sandstorms as they can transport various types of dust and biological particles including bacteria, fungi and viruses.
• Smoking or secondhand smoking
• Respiratory infections such as common cold
• Weather conditions such as cold air
• Air pollutants such as smoke and other chemical irritants Several risk factors add up to increase the risk of getting asthma including hereditary factors, hay fever, and exposure to smoke, pollution, and other occupational triggers such as chemicals used in hairdressing or manufacturing.
What to do when experiencing an asthma attack and you don’t have an inhaler?
• Sit upright and take long and deep breaths to avoid hyperventilation
• Try not to panic as this will further tighten your chest muscles
• Stay away from any kind of smoke or dust
• Seek medical assistance immediately if the breathlessness persists If you have an inhaler, you should sit upright and take puffs from the inhaler. If there is no recovery after 4 minutes, take another puff. Seek medical assistance if the breathlessness persists. Prevention You can control your condition and prevent asthma attacks by:
• Staying away from asthma triggers
• Avoiding going outside during sandstorms
• Moistening the nostrils so they don’t dry out, particularly during sandstorms
• Wearing protective mask or dampened bandana
• Avoiding any strenuous exercises
• Getting vaccinated to prevent flu and pneumonia
• Taking your medications as prescribed by your physician