Asthma Flare-up: Overview, Signs, Remedies, and Additional Info
Asthma exacerbations, or flare-ups, are periods when an individual experiences a progressive increase in asthma symptoms, such as coughing, shortness of breath, or wheezing. These episodes can be triggered by various factors, including respiratory infections, allergens, irritants, exercise, emotions, weather changes, and environmental factors.
Common Triggers of Asthma Exacerbations
Respiratory infections, particularly those caused by the human rhinovirus subtypes A and C, are common triggers. Other asthma exacerbation triggers include bacterial infections, allergies, defective antiviral immunity, allergen exposure, pollutants, occupational exposures, tobacco smoke, air pollution, strong odors, exercise, emotions, hot or humid weather, ground-level ozone, and wildfires.
Typical Symptoms During an Asthma Exacerbation
During an asthma exacerbation, symptoms may include shortness of breath (dyspnea), wheezing, coughing, prolonged expiration, use of accessory respiratory muscles, chest tightness, and, in severe cases, paradoxical breathing, altered mental status, low peak expiratory flow, and a "silent chest" (minimal breath sounds).
Managing Asthma Exacerbations
The primary goal of asthma treatment is to control an individual's symptoms and prevent exacerbations. To achieve this, doctors may use a personalized guide called an asthma action plan. This plan helps patients recognize early warning signs of worsening asthma, avoid known triggers, and respond appropriately to symptoms. It typically includes instructions on medication use, monitoring symptoms or peak flow measurements, and when to seek emergency care.
Doctors may also use a measurement of airflow called diurnal variability to assess an individual's asthma condition. A spirometry test is used to measure lung function qualities such as forced expiratory volume, peak respiratory flow, partial pressure of oxygen, partial pressure of carbon dioxide, and arterial oxygen saturation.
In the event of an asthma exacerbation, a change in treatment methods or current asthma action plan may be required. It is crucial for individuals with asthma to work closely with their healthcare providers to develop and maintain an effective asthma management plan.
[1] Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA). (2021). Global Strategy for Asthma Management and Prevention. https://www.ginasthma.org/
[2] National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2021). Asthma. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/asthma
[3] American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. (2021). Asthma. https://www.aaaai.org/conditions-and-treatments/library/asthma
[4] Asthma UK. (2021). What are the symptoms of asthma? https://www.asthma.org.uk/advice/triggers/symptoms/
[5] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Asthma action plan. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/asthma/in-depth/asthma-action-plan/art-20046204
- To minimize the risk of respiratory conditions like asthma, workplace-wellness programs can incorporate measures to control allergens, pollutants, and occupational exposures.
- The science behind asthma exacerbations shows that factors influencing them include chronic diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), obesity, and heart diseases, as well as mental health issues and nutritional deficiencies.
- Proper skin care and hygiene can help individuals with asthma reduce their chances of contracting respiratory infections caused by streptococcus pneumoniae or haemophilus influenzae, which are common asthma triggers.
- Emotional and mental well-being play a key role in managing chronic diseases and asthma, as stress and anxiety can worsen asthma symptoms, making it crucial for individuals with asthma to prioritize their mental health.
- In the realm of therapies and treatments, in addition to medication, regular fitness and exercise are essential for maintaining lung capacity and overall health while managing asthma symptoms and preventing exacerbations.
- Apart from their impact on respiratory conditions, medical-conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, and sleep apnea, may interfere with an individual's ability to appropriatele manage their asthma, making it vital for them to adhere to their personalized nutrition plan, which may be developed in collaboration with healthcare professionals.
