Asthma : Proper management, the key to well-being

Asthma : Proper management, the key to well-being

Asthma is a respiratory disorder that, according to Health Canada, affects 2.7 million Canadians. This disease is the result of inflammation of the bronchial tubes, making it more difficult for them to carry air to the lungs.

Symptoms of asthma

People suffering from asthma will experience one or more of the following symptoms:

  • Wheezing;
  • Tightness of the chest;
  • Coughing:
  • Shortness of breath;
  • Secretions.

If you experience these symptoms, please see a physician.

Asthma triggers

The causes of asthma have not been clearly established, but certain risk factorshave been identified, such as:

  • family history,
  • prolonged exposure to air pollution,
  • smoking,
  • obesity.

Asthma attacks can be triggered by a series of factors, which can vary from one person to the next. These are as follows:

  • Allergens in the air (dust, pollen, dust mites, mould, animal dander and saliva, etc.);
  • Air pollution (smog, smoke, etc.);
  • Strong odours (household products, solvents, perfume, etc.);
  • Intense physical activity;
  • Extreme emotions and stress;
  • Bronchial infections, such as a cold or bronchitis;
  • Certain medications (e.g. ASA, certain anti-inflammatory agents).

Note: Most cases of asthma in children are due to allergies.

Asthma treatments

There is no cure for asthma. However, its symptoms can be significantly reduced, allowing you to enjoy a normal, active life.

A few measures to better control your asthma

  • Understand how the disease works.
  • Identify the factors that trigger or aggravate your symptoms and try to avoid them.
  • Establish an action plan with your pharmacist or doctor and carefully follow it.
  • Follow to the letter the instructions for taking your medication.

Remember that by managing your asthma, you can improve your quality of life and avoid more serious and permanent damage to your respiratory tract.

Asthma medications

Asthma medications serve to control and alleviate symptoms. When using them, you must be sure to carefully follow the recommendations made by your doctor or pharmacist.

The medications prescribed most often to treat asthma are as follows:

  • Long- or short-term action bronchodilators — the first quickly opens the airways and is generally used during an acute attack; the second type acts more slowly and is often used in conjunction with glucocorticosteroids.
  • Inhaled anti-inflammatory agents (glucocorticosteroids) are used daily to reduce inflammation and secretions. They are the base treatment for asthma.

Pharmacy services

There are many professional pharmacies services available to help you manage your asthma:

If you or a member of your family has asthma, your pharmacist can help. Talk to him!

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