Many people suffer from asthma. In fact, it’s reported that asthma is the number one chronic illness in children, infecting some 5.5 million children. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NIH), this respiratory condition “is a chronic (long-term) lung disease that inflames and narrows the airways. Asthma causes recurring periods of wheezing (a whistling sound when you breathe), chest tightness, shortness of breath, and coughing.” Not only is asthma incredibly uncomfortable, it can also be dangerous and fatal when left untreated.
Treatment
Medication helps ensure that a person’s asthma doesn’t flare up and cause an attack. Because asthma is a life-long disease, asthma patients are likely to be stuck taking their medications for the duration of their life. It’s important to seek out a treatment that meets the infected person’s lifestyle needs, prevents symptoms, and provides fast relief when needed.
Long-term treatments usually call on Leukotriene inhibitors, like Singulair. Singulair is used to prevent asthma attacks in both children and adults, beginning around 12 months of age. Savvy shoppers can buy generic Singulair online. Other long-term asthma controlling medications include: anti-inflammatory drugs, bronchodilators, and injectables. Injectables are only used when inhaled steroids fail the patient.
Short-term asthma treatments provide quick relief to sudden asthma symptoms. Bronchodilators are usually prescribed to the victim. During any physical activity, there is the chance that an asthma sufferer may be met with an attack. When this happens, the bronchodilator can be used to relieve the symptom. Typically only used in emergency situations, systemic corticosteroids offer swift control over the symptoms.
At-Home Asthma Remedies
Unfortunately, asthma medication is not readily available. Perhaps a child is just beginning to exhibit signs of asthma or medication is out of reach for some reason. No matter the reason that long-term medications are out of reach, there is definitely going to be a moment in a chronic asthma sufferer’s life where they will need to know some fast-acting at-home remedies for their symptoms.
Cold coffee is sometimes used for temporary asthma relief. The bronchial stimulator, coffee, is said to open the throat and reduce throat swelling. Some asthma sufferers swear by their humidifiers. By alternating moisture and heat, using a humidifier on the highest setting, asthma patients can find some relief. Although these at-home treatments are said to work, nothing is more powerful than a prescription formulated to treat asthma. These at-home remedies should only be used with caution and after speaking to a doctor about their effectiveness.
In any home, asthma allergies are likely triggered by dust and microscopic insects. It’s recommended that sufferers remain diligent in their battle against mites. They should always keep bedding super clean. Some may want to invest in a mattress pad and some dust covers. The battle with dust doesn’t have to be a losing one. Asthma sufferers are recommended to purchase an air purifier, as this may help to control asthma symptoms. It’s also recommended to not smoke cigarettes or participate in other activities that irritate the lungs and can instigate more serious asthma symptoms.
Doctor Knows Best
When it comes to controlling one’s asthma, nobody knows better than a doctor. If you, or someone you love, are suffering from asthma symptoms it’s important to seek out a physician. Doctors that specialize in asthma control are capable of creating a treatment plan around your individualized needs. Anyone suffering from asthma is urged to seek out medical treatment, for the best possible care, as asthma is a serious, life-threatening disease.
Recent Comments