Asthma is a chronic lung disease affecting more than 25 million people in the United States alone. It is marked by an inflammation of the airways that causes them to swell and narrow, thereby restricting airflow. The passageways also become sensitive and easily irritated. There is currently no known cure, though several asthma therapies have been developed to treat the condition. While there are several conditions that can trigger an asthma attack, the exact cause of asthma is not known. Fortunately, those who have asthma can seek treatment of the symptoms through proper medical care and avoiding, or minimizing, situations that can trigger an attack.
Signs of an Asthma Attack
When an asthma attack occurs, the individual may experience breathing difficulties such as shortness of breath or wheezing. Chest tightness and coughing are also common symptoms. However, exhibiting these conditions does not necessarily mean an asthma attack is taking place, nor does an absence of them mean a person does not have asthma. The best way for someone to determine if he or she has asthma requiring special treatment is through a proper medical examination and diagnosis.
There are several ways that an asthma attack can be brought on. The most common causes are:
- Allergens (dust, animal fur, mold, pollen)
- Air pollution
- Irritation from cigarette smoke, aerosol sprays, cleaning chemicals, or dust in public buildings
- Certain medicines or drugs
- Sulfites found in foods and drinks (such as red wine)
- Upper respiratory infections, and physical activity
By developing a long-term asthma treatment and action plan with a healthcare provider, you can manage and minimize the triggers and reactions to limit their effect on your quality of life.
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| The anatomy of an asthma attack. Source: nih.gov |
Asthma Treatment Options
There are two approaches to asthma treatment – long-term and immediate. A long-term plan addresses lifestyle and personal habits as well as the taking of specific medications to limit asthma attacks and their severity. But, even when a long-term plan is in place, almost all asthma sufferers will need to have access to quick-acting medications as well. Known as rescue inhalers, these quick-relief drugs are designed to provide treatment for asthma flare-ups when they appear.
Understanding Asthma Rescue Medications
The purpose of rescue medications is to relieve asthma symptoms when they flare up. These drugs provide immediate relief through an oral inhaler or nebulizer that releases the medication into the lungs, relaxing muscles around air passageways to restore breathing. Among the most popular of these are the short-acting beta agonists, such as Xopenex.
It’s important to remember that quick-relief medications are for temporary relief and are not a substitute for a long-term asthma treatment plan. In fact, if the need for a rescue inhaler increases, the overall treatment plan may need to be adjusted. If you have a rescue inhaler, it should be with you at all times; if your child has been prescribed one, notify his or her school so that arrangements can be made for prompt administration when needed.
