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Understanding Asthma

Zachary Carter

Asthma is a chronic condition that is caused by inflammation of the airways. It is a sudden and severe outburst often allergic disorder of respiration. It is a condition of the small tubes in our body (bronchi). This tube carries air in and out of the lungs. An inflammation of this tube can make the person become very allergic or over sensitive and they get irritated very easily. This causes the airways to become swollen and the muscles surrounding it tighten. People who have this condition will have trouble breathing at times as sticky mucus or phlegm builds up which can further narrow the airways (NHS, 2012).

(Ashtma-NZ.org, 2008) Symptoms may come and go and it varies from one person to another person. It may as well vary every day. There are days when the symptoms may not be so bad while other days, it might be severe. * Shortness of breath
This is due to the lungs not able to get enough air into. * Tightness in chest
The chest feels tight as making them unable to expand freely when breathing. * Coughing
This is a very common symptom and it is usually persistent and dry. * Wheezing
To breathe with difficulty (with a whistling sound).

(NHS, 2012) Patients who have asthma can have a significant effect on their lifestyle. Asthma should be taken very seriously. Aside from having an extra medical care, patients are advice to avoid the things that could trigger asthma attacks. Some of these attacks usually occur during night times, which causes a disturbed sleep which can lead to tiredness that can affect e patients output the following day.
Self care is a must. You have to be responsible for your own health and wellbeing. Support from family and friends are needed. Caring for the patients self involves keeping fit and to maintain a good physical and mental health.
Medications are very important.

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