asthma presentation
TRANSCRIPT
3 million Canadians have asthma—that’s 10% of the population.
There is no cure for asthma, but it can be managed.
Over 500 Canadians die each year from asthma related incidents.
You can still lead a completely normal life with asthma.
Chronic lung condition
Reversible reactive airway obstruction
Tightening of the muscles surrounding the bronchial passages in the lungs
Asthma is a variable condition
Can be developed at any age
Persistent/recurrent cough
Dyspnea
(shortness of breath)
Wheezing
Chest tightness
Symptoms and severity can change over time
May not have all of the above symptoms
“Bronchoconstriction”
•Occurs when exposed to a trigger
•Muscles surrounding bronchioles contract and produce excess mucus
•Airways become red, inflamed (swollen) and narrow
Extrinsic (Allergic) Triggers:
Dust mites
Mould
Certain foods
Animal dander
Pollen
Intrinsic (Non-Allergic) Triggers:
Exercise
Infections (cold and flu)
Cold or humid air
Intense emotions (ex. Stress)
Medications (aspirin)
Hormones
Air pollution
Fragrances and chemicals
Occupational irritants
Exercise can induce asthma symptoms in people who have no other asthma triggers.
Exercise is a trigger for 90% of people with asthma.
Preventing exercise induced flare-ups:
If prescribed take medication 5-15 minutes before exercise
Warm up and cool down gradually for 10-20 minutes
If you have a flare-up, stop and take your medication, resume only when symptom-free
Asthma can’t be cured
Managed using medications and trigger avoidance
Known as rescue, reliever and quick relief medications
Reverses symptoms fast
Bronchodilator inhaled directly to the lungs
Begins working immediately, peaks at 5-10 minutes Used for sudden symptoms or to
prevent exercise induced flare ups.
Should be carried at ALL times by ANY person with asthma
Prevents asthma symptoms from starting
Taken daily by people with persistent asthma
Brings down inflammation/treats constriction
Inhaled and oral corticosteroids – not the same as anabolic steroids
Leukotriene modifier —alternative to corticosteroids
Corticosteroid and long-actingBronchodilator (LABA)
Used by some (usually moderate or severe) asthma patients to monitor ongoing lung function to detect changes
Also known as a “spacer” or valved holding chamber (VHC)
Delivery of medication over 100% more effective
To a person with persistent asthma, asthma can be a LOT more than a blue inhaler!
If not dealt with effectively, asthma can impact many areas of a person’s life . . . Physical, emotional and social.
Some of the time, you can coexist fairly peacefully with asthma, but others it feels as if your body is working AGAINST you instead of with you!
“Control” may be different for everybody
Except for exercise, avoid triggers as much as possible
Take/adjust medications as prescribed
Find a doctor who will help you get in control
Stay in contact with your doctor