Sudden climatic changes, so common in the Capital, are known to trigger asthmatic attacks among scores of patients, especially in children. While there is no ‘silver bullet' cure for asthma, chest physicians assert that the condition can be managed and patients can lead a quality life.
As an analogy, physicians compare the airways of the human body to that of the leaves of ‘Touch Me Not' plant (Mimosa). “The moment one touches the leaves of this plant, they immediately react to the touch and shrink. The airways to the lungs react similarly to allergens. They simply constrict and disrupt breathing,” says senior chest physician, Government General and Chest Diseases Hospital, Erragadda, K. Subhakar.
The condition is severe in winter when cold and dry conditions trigger frequent episodes, more so in children. Doctors also point out that Hyderabad and surroundings have large swathes of Congress Grass (Parthenium), which is known to trigger asthma attacks.
“The effects of a cold can last for a long time unless patients are given treatment. Particularly running in cold weather can cause asthma attack. Exercise induced asthma, however, can be easily controlled. Persons with asthma, however, should not avoid exercise altogether. They can work-out indoors,” says Dr. Sudheer Alapati, Consultant Pulmonologist, Sunshine Hospitals.
The most common symptoms that occur during asthma attack include tightness in chest, shortness in breath and recurring cough and wheezing. “Due to narrow opening of the airway, children have trouble breathing. This causes wheezing,” Dr. Subhakar says.
Inhalers better
Doctors also make it clear that similar to chronic ailments like diabetes and blood pressure, long-term treatment plan to maintain asthma should be in place. “Treatments like inhalers must be used regularly whether or not the patient is wheezy. Patients should also talk openly about their treatment with the doctor or pharmacists,” advises Dr. Sudheer.
In the long run, inhalers to dilate constricted airways are better option than tablets. “Due to initial cost factor, majority discontinue inhalers and adopt tablets. But, we have seen that in the long run, asthma patients develop complications after using tablets. It is better patients use inhalers,” Dr. Subhakar suggested.
