www.womanthismonth.com 35 February 2016 showcase Asthma is a disease that affects the tubes carrying air in and out of the lungs. With asthma, the airways narrow, swell and produce excess mucus, which can cause wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and breathing difficulty – especially early in the morning and at night. “It is not yet clear why some people get asthma and others do not, but it is most likely due to a combination of environmental and genetic [inherited] factors,” says Royal Bahrain Hospital’s pulmonology specialist Dr Maria Teresa Catacutan. “Asthma triggers differ from one individual to another. Common triggers include house dust mites, animal fur, pollen, tobacco smoke, exercise, cold air and chest infections.” Symptoms are a minor nuisance for some, but a major problem for others, interfering with their daily activities. In life-threatening asthma attacks, the airways can close so much that your vital organs do not get enough oxygen; which could lead to death. Unfortunately, asthma cannot be cured, but the symptoms can be controlled. Treatment includes avoiding asthma triggers, using longterm control medications to prevent flare-ups and using a quick-relief inhaler to control symptoms once they start. Diagnosing asthma can be difficult and, to rule out other possible conditions, your doctor will perform a physical examination and take your medical history. You may also need to undergo lung function tests. Determining the severity of your asthma will help your doctor choose the best treatment for you. “Treatment usually involves learning to recognise your triggers and taking steps to avoid them,” says Dr Catacutan. “Use of asthma medications will keep symptoms under control. In case of an asthma attack, you may need to use a quick-relief inhaler such as salbutamol or albuterol.” Work with your doctor to create an asthma action plan for proper management and control of asthma. Call 17 246-800 or visit www.royalbahrainhospital.com to book an appointment. Asthma is a commonly occurring disease that affects many. Prevention and long-term control are the key to tackling attacks. ROYAL BAHRAIN HOSPITAL PREVENTION BETTER THAN CURE Dr Maria Teresa Catacutan department of pulmonology
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