Asthma Attack

Asthma attack

Asthma attack, also known as asthma exacerbation, occur due to swelling and inflammation of airway. During the attack muscles surrounding the airway tube causes constriction of airway and extra mucus production make breathing stressful.

Symptoms

Symptoms include:

  • Chest tightness
  • Coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath become severe.
  • Reading of peak expiratory flow (PEF) become low.
  • Symptoms become so severe that it doesn’t respond to quick acting inhalers.
Causes

Overactive immune system making defensive protein against the bronchial lining. This leads to inflamed and swollen respiratory track. Some frequent triggers ofthe asthma are:Asthma Symptoms Treatment

  • Pollens
  • Infection of upper respiratory tract
  • Cold and dry air
  • Smoking
  • GERD
  • Stress
Complications

Some common complications are:

  • Condition become debilitating and interfering in the routine life.
  • Emergency room admission
  • Respiratory arrest
  • Death
Diagnosis

Diagnosis of this condition depends upon detailed medical history and complete general physical examination of patient. Other tests and investigations include:

  • Peak flow meter test
  • Spirometry
  • Nitric oxide measurement
  • Pulse oximetry
Treatment

Treatment include:

  • Following of asthma plan which usually involves two to six puffs of quick acting inhaler
  • Emergency treatment include administration of Short-acting beta agonists, such as albuterol, Oral corticosteroids, Ipratropium (Atrovent HFA), Intubation, mechanical ventilation and oxygen.
Home Remedies
  • Minimize the exposure of the trigger of asthma attack
  • Maintain hygiene to reduce the risk of upper
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