You At Your Best

By Sarah haNey NWa Democrat-Gazette Asthma, a chronic lung disease that results in infl amed and narrowed air passages, affects millions of people around the world. More than 25 million people in the United States have asthma. When airways narrow and swell, they can produce extra mucus. Breathing becomes quite diffi cult when asthma is present. Asthma can be just a minor nuisance for some people, while others may experience life-threatening attacks. Recognizing potential triggers and avoiding them can help control symptoms. The changing of seasons can be a tricky time for asthma sufferers because of the increase in air irritants. Pollen and mold spores are known asthma triggers. Spring cleaning around the house also may trigger an attack if dust, pet dander or particles of cockroach waste are stirred up. People who are allergic to certain substances also may discover these same allergens can trigger asthma attacks. Irritants in the environment also can bring on such attacks. While people may not be allergic to certain irritants, irritants can bother infl amed and sensitive airways. Cigarette smoke, wood fi res, charcoal grills, smog, strong fumes, and chemicals also may trigger asthma attacks. People with asthma also must take care when exercising or when they develop respiratory illnesses. Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction can appear after several minutes of sustained exercise. Colds, fl u and sinus infections are among the most common asthma triggers in children. Although many asthma triggers are known, researchers continue to explore what causes asthma. People may be more likely to develop asthma if: • They have atopy, an inherited tendency to develop allergies. • Their parents have asthma. • They were exposed to certain respiratory infections during their childhood. • They had contact with allergens while their immune systems were developing. A theory known as the "hygiene hypothesis" suggests another potential cause for asthma. Researchers say that growing concerns with hygiene and sanitation have removed many of the types of environmental exposures that once helped children develop strong immune systems. As a result, an increased risk for atopy and asthma has surfaced. Asthma sufferers can try to avoid common triggers and may fi nd that medication and other lifestyle changes can help control their symptoms. Effective asthma treatment includes monitoring the disease with a peak fl ow meter, identifying and avoiding allergen triggers, using drug therapies including bronchodilators and anti-infl ammatory agents, and developing an emergency plan for severe attacks. There are two types of asthma medications: long-term control and quick-relief medications. Long-term control medications are preventive, taken daily to achieve and maintain control of asthma symptoms. Quick-relief medications are used to treat asthma attacks. They relieve symptoms rapidly and are taken on an as-needed basis. One of the most effective medications for controlling asthma is inhaled corticosteroids, which are anti-infl ammatory medications. Taken early and as directed, these well- tolerated and safe medications can improve asthma control and normalize lung function. Immunotherapy or allergy shots should be considered if asthma is triggered by exposure to unavoidable allergens, or if symptoms occur three days a week and more than two nights a month. The shots are especially helpful when symptoms occur year-round or are not easily controlled with medication. Allergists are the medical specialists with the most expertise in treating asthma. An allergist can fi nd the source of your suffering and stop it. asthma triggers and treatment options Asthma su erers can try to avoid common triggers and may fi nd that medication and other lifestyle changes can help control their symptoms. SATURDAY, MARch 31, 2018 | ApRil - TAckling AlleRgieS nwADg.coM/YoUATYoURbeST | YoU AT YoUR beST | 15

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