Definition of a Typical Asthma Attack
Asthma is an autoimmune disease that affects millions of Americans. Not everyone is susceptible. If your family has a history of allergies or asthma, you may be more prone. Knowing when an attack is coming, as well as what triggers it, can be key in treating this chronic and sometimes fatal condition.
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Symptoms
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When an asthma attack is looming, the airways to the lungs begin to narrow. This obstruction of increased inflammation can make breathing laborious. Other symptoms that are coupled with being short breathed include, wheezing, chest tightness and excessive coughing.
Allergic Triggers
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Allergic triggers are one of the most common causes for an asthma attack. Some of the worst offenders include pollens, molds, dust mites and pet dander. If you suspect that allergies are causing your asthma attacks, but are unsure of what you are allergic to, visit an allergist to get tested. A series of skin prick tests on your arm or back can quickly let you know which allergens affect you the most.
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Non Allergic Triggers
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Many non-allergic triggers that can bring on an asthma attack. Environmental irritants such as pollutants, smog, chemicals, smoke, harsh odors and even certain weather conditions can affect many asthmatics. For others, exercise and respiratory infections can lead to an asthma attack. If you are uncertain what is exasperating your asthma, keep a diary or log to determine which triggers are affecting you.
Limit Exposure
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Limiting your exposure to the triggers that lead to an asthma attack are crucial. For allergic triggers, be sure to use HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters on vacuums, air purifiers and air conditioners to remove the micro-sized allergens that are floating around your home. For those who suffer from chronic asthma attacks, remove any carpet and replace it with flooring. Check online pollen and mold forecasts daily. When counts are high, try to schedule activities for indoors. For non-allergic triggers, try to limit time outside when triggers are present. For chronic cases, consider wearing a protective mask that can help filter any irritants.
Treatment
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If you suffer from asthma, make sure to monitor it by using a peak flow meter. A quick breath into this handy device can immediately indicate your airflow capacity, which has a direct affect on the likelihood of an asthma attack. In case of an attack, your doctor will prescribe you a fast-acting inhaler. This powerful medication can quickly relax the airways and return you to normal breathing. If you find that you are using your inhaler more than twice a week, preventative medications such as corticosteroids and leukotriene blockers may be prescribed. Talk to your doctor about the best course of medication for you.
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