How to Prevent Asthma Attacks as Pollution Rises?

With rising air pollution these days, the cases of asthma problems are on the rise in India. As per the report of Global Burden of Disease (GBD), India has over 30 million asthma patients, which is approximately 13.09 % of the world, with a mortality rate of over 42% of all asthma deaths. Asthma is a non-communicable disease affecting children and adults but is common among children. It is caused due to inflammation and muscle tightening around the air passages, which makes it harder to breathe. High levels of pollution worsen the symptoms of asthma.

The symptoms include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath. The smoke and harmful particles present in the air may irritate the respiratory tracts and make it hard to breathe for asthma patients. If you are troubled with these symptoms, then it's important to consult with your doctor. Your healthcare provider is the right person to discuss symptoms; based on your health, he may order an Asthma Rhinitis Allergy Panel test. Take an asthma test to know your health status, manage the symptoms, and get treatment timely.

How does pollution impact asthma in people?

Most children and adults with asthma face difficulty in breathing during high-pollution days. These symptoms may vary from person to person. The symptoms often increase or worsen during the night or after heavy exercise. The symptoms might worsen when the weather changes. The triggers like dust, smoke, fumes, grass and pollen, animal fur and feathers, and perfume might trigger asthma attacks. Asthma symptoms include:

• persistent cough, especially during the night 
• chest tightness
• shortness of breath
• Wheezing when exhaling
• faster heartbeats
• fast breathing
• Drowsiness and confusion
• fainting

How do pollutants affect breathing and cause asthma attacks?

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that causes inflammation and narrowing of airways, and certain triggers like pollutants and allergens may set off asthma attacks. The particle pollutants create tiny bits of dust and smoke, and these smaller particles get into the lungs and cause breathing problems.

Common factors that can cause asthma attacks include:

• Allergens: Allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold may trigger asthma attacks. These allergens may cause inflammation and lead to coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. 
• Respiratory Infections: People having respiratory infections, like the common cold or flu, can exacerbate asthma symptoms and lead to an asthma attack.
• Irritants: Tobacco smoke, air pollution, fumes, or chemical irritants can irritate the airways and increase the risk of asthma attacks.
• Heavy Exercise: People with asthma are advised to avoid heavy exercise as strenuous exercise, especially in cold, dry air, can worsen asthma conditions. 

• Stress: Stress is not good for asthma patients as strong emotions can trigger asthma attacks in some people.
• Medications: Some medications may also trigger asthma symptoms.
• Weather changes: Cold air,  high humidity, and other sudden changes in weather may lead to a rise in asthma attacks.

Importance of Asthma Rhinitis Allergy Panel

Your doctor might recommend the Asthma rhinitis allergy panel test to diagnose and confirm whether the symptoms are associated with asthma. The test measures the IgE levels of allergens like house dust, pollen, animal dander, and insects that cause or trigger asthma attacks.  The test helps to identify the specific allergens and to get treatment on time. Knowing the cause of asthma triggers can help people prevent and manage asthma symptoms by making informed lifestyle and environmental changes to minimize exposure to allergens. By addressing the root cause of allergy and asthma symptoms, you can improve the quality of life for individuals with allergic conditions.

Who should take the Asthma Rhinitis Allergy Panel?

Children are at higher risk of asthma, but the test is recommended for people experiencing symptoms of allergies, asthma, or rhinitis. This test helps identify specific allergens that may be triggering these conditions. These include:

• People experience symptoms like sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, nasal congestion, and coughing due to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, insect stings, or certain foods.

• People who have asthma conditions
• For people who have allergic rhinitis, it can cause symptoms like a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, and itchy or watery eyes. 

Based on your physical condition, medical history, and symptoms, your healthcare provider will recommend diagnostic tests. 

Tips to Avoid The Risk of Asthma Attacks during Pollution 

If  you have asthma, then you should follow the below tips to reduce the impact of asthma symptoms:

• Use your inhaler daily to keep asthma symptoms in control
• always read the medicine precautions to see if it is suitable for asthma patients or not
• Do not smoke as smoking may severe the symptoms of asthma.
• Exercise in moderation does not trigger asthma. 
• Take a healthy and balanced diet. 
• Avoid going outside during high pollution days, as fine particles may increase stress and anxiety and trigger asthma symptoms.
• Always wear a good mask while going outside.
• Avoid crowded, closed places. 
• Practice breathing exercises at home to increase your lung capacity and reduce the side effects of pollution.
• Take a regular Asthma Rhinitis Allergy Panel test to keep a check on your health.

Takeaway

Asthma management requires avoiding triggers when possible by following tips like taking prescribed medications, avoiding pollutants, and eating a healthy diet. Avoiding symptoms may worsen the condition and may cause a serious asthma attack. Consult with your doctor in case you are not sure about the asthma symptoms.