What is Asthma?
Asthma is a condition which affects the airways of the lungs. It can affect both adults (adult onset asthma) and children and has a high prevalence in Ireland. Childhood asthma is particularly common in Ireland and whilst the etiology and treatment are much the same as in adults there are some differences - for more information see childhood asthma.
Asthma is caused by an allergic type reaction in which the airways (small tubes which carry air in and out of the lungs) become over sensitive to something.
These tubes become narrowed and blocked causing wheezing, shortness of breath and chest discomfort.
The tubes are narrowed when the muscles which surround them tighten up, and blockage is due to an excess production of mucous which clogs the tubes (similar to a blocked nose during a cold). Breathing becomes strained.
Asthma Attack Triggers
An asthma attack can be triggered by numerous different factors and these may be different for different people. Some common asthma triggers include dust, cold air, virus's, household cleaning products, perfumes and smoke. Even exercise can bring on an attack of asthma - this is called exercise induced asthma.
Asthma Symptoms
Asthma needs to be diagnosed by your doctor. You should visit your GP if you experience any or all of the following symptoms of asthma
- difficulty in breathing
- a tightness in the chest
- wheezing
- a hoarse night time cough
Treatment of Asthma
Asthma cannot be cured, but it can be very well controlled. The most commonly used asthma treatment involves a combination of inhalers. These either prevent the inflammation in the lungs or relieve an attack of asthma by causing the muscles surrounding the tubes to relax so that breathing is made easier. If you have been diagnosed with asthma and prescribed asthma inhalers, it is very important that these are used correctly in order to get the best results.
How Can We Help with Your Asthma?
Our pharmacists are always available to counsel you on your asthma. We will also explain how to use your asthma inhalers properly and how they work to prevent and relieve symptoms of asthma. We are also able to help you develop an asthma action plan which will explain when to use the preventer and reliever inhalers and what to do if the symptoms worsen. This can be written down and kept at home.
From time to time we run asthma information days in store. Please ask staff if you would like to be notified of these or follow us on facebook.
Asthma Video
The following video describes what happens during an asthma attack.
We have also assembled more videos on asthma on the LucanPharmacy Youtube channel.