On a cold winter night, a retired teacher who had suffered from asthma for many years suddenly felt breathless. He thought his asthma was getting better and decided a few weeks ago to stop using his daily inhaled medication. But that night, his breath was short, and the pressure in his chest prevented him from lying flat, and he had to call the emergency number for help. This may sound extreme, but it is not an isolated case. Many people with asthma mistakenly believe that treatment can be stopped when symptoms are relieved without a full understanding of the condition. Asthma is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management, and inflammation in the airways can continue silently, even when there are no obvious symptoms.
Asthma is not a momentary crisis, but a battle that requires a long fight. We must not lay down our arms just because the enemy is temporarily retreating, and we must not mistake the disease for the relief of symptoms. This article will provide an in-depth look at the basics of asthma, why ongoing medication is important, and how to recognise the precursors of an asthma attack, with the aim of helping people with asthma and their families understand and manage this common and complex condition.
Asthma Demystified: Know Your Airway
Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects millions of people worldwide. The core problem of this condition is the persistent inflammation and overresponsiveness of the airways, which lead to intermittent narrowing of the airways, which in turn leads to breathing difficulties. The patient's airways overreact to external stimuli such as dust mites, pollen, smoke and cold air, causing airway inflammation and muscle contractions, which are the direct cause of asthma symptom attacks.
The importance of ongoing medication: it's not just about managing symptoms
Many people with asthma may choose to stop using maintenance medications when they have no obvious symptoms. However, this practice can lead to instability and exacerbation of the condition. The management of asthma should not be limited to symptom control, but more importantly, the ongoing control of chronic inflammation of the airways.
Maintenance medications, such as inhaled corticosteroids, are effective in reducing chronic inflammation and sensitivity of the airways, thereby reducing the frequency and severity of exacerbations. Studies have shown that chronic inflammation of the airways may persist even in the absence of obvious symptoms. Therefore, people with asthma should continue to use maintenance medications as recommended by their doctor, even if they feel well.
Regular use of maintenance medications can significantly reduce the risk of acute asthma exacerbations, improve quality of life, and reduce reliance on rescue inhalers. Studies have also shown that continuous medication can be effective in preventing asthma-related hospital emergency and hospitalization, which is important for reducing the burden on the healthcare system.
In conclusion, asthma sufferers should understand that asthma is a chronic condition that requires long-term management. Discontinuation not only increases the risk of an acute exacerbation, but may also lead to further impairment of long-term airway function. Therefore, even during the asymptomatic period, it is important to adhere to regular medication and maintain close communication and cooperation with healthcare providers to jointly develop a personalized treatment plan.
Warning signs: Recognize the early signs of an asthma attack
Asthma isn't just an occasional health problem, it's a chronic condition that requires long-term management. An asthma attack is often preceded by a series of warning signs, and timely identification and appropriate action on these symptoms can greatly reduce the severity or likelihood of an attack.
Early symptoms of an asthma attack
Nocturnal cough: Recurrent coughing at night or in the early hours of the morning without triggers may be a sign of poorly controlled asthma.
Shortness of breath after activity: Difficulty breathing or wheezing after light to moderate-intensity activity, especially after exercise, people with asthma may experience more significant discomfort.
Increased respiratory rate: People with asthma have an unexplained increase in respiratory rate at rest, often accompanied by feelings of nervousness or anxiety.
Chest pressure or pain: Feeling pressure or mild pain in the chest is also a common warning sign before an asthma attack.
Increased frequency of use of rescue inhalers: if a more frequent use of rescue inhalers (such as albuterol) is found, this may be a sign of worsening asthma symptoms.
Recognizing these early symptoms does not mean an immediate panic state, but it does require a reassessment and adjustment of asthma management strategies.
Management strategy: Keep your asthma under control
Effective management of asthma not only prevents potential life-threatening risks, but also significantly improves quality of life. Here are some basic and key management strategies:
Long-term control of drug use
Use control medications regularly: People with asthma should use long-acting control medications, such as inhaled corticosteroids, strictly as directed by their doctor. These medications help reduce inflammation in the airways and prevent asthma attacks.
Follow a personalized asthma action plan: Every person with asthma should have a personalized asthma action plan detailing key information such as when and how to adjust their medications and when to seek medical attention.
Monitoring and adjustment
Regular monitoring of lung function: Regular monitoring of lung function with a peak flow meter can help patients and physicians understand the status of asthma control and adjust treatment plans in a timely manner.
Environmental control: Identify and avoid as much as possible those environmental factors that can trigger an asthma attack, such as smoke, dust mites, pet dander, etc.
Emergency preparedness
Know what to do: Make sure you and your family are familiar with asthma first aid, how to use your rescue inhaler correctly, and when you need to seek emergency medical help.