Asthma seems to be becoming more and more prevalent. 

Those of us fortunate enough to not have it, usually have
a friend or relative that suffers from this unpleasant
disorder. If managed properly, it's effects can now be
largely minimised and controlled.

Thousands of people worldwide suffer from asthma. If you
don't have it, you undoubtedly know someone who does.
It's a common condition, and fortunately it isn't too
severe in most cases. It acts by restricting the airways
to the lungs, causing a great deal of discomfort.
Although asthma attacks usually only last for a few
minutes, in some cases they can be fatal.

As yet the research has not revealed the reasons due to
which asthma is caused in people. Though some believe that
the culprit could be the genetics of an individual. In most
cases asthma appears early in the life on an individual and
more often than not stays with him till the end of his days.

Over the years there has been a rise in the number of asthma
patients. Though no clear reason has emerged to explain this
but many believe it could one of the many ills of fast paced
modern life arising from bad eating habits, stress and a
polluted environment.

Several things are known to set off an asthma attack.
Some sufferers are affected by all of them, and others by
only one or two. The most common causes are exercise,
smoking, dust, pollen, illnesses such as colds or flu,
certain foods, and even changes in air temperature.

Considering the frequency of asthmatic patients in our
society it would be a good idea for all of us to become
knowledgeable in ways to help patients during an asthma
attack. Generally the symptoms of an asthma attack are very
easy to judge for one and all.

The signs are typically wheezing, coughing, breathlessness,
and a tightness in the chest area. Most asthmatics have an
inhaler containing medication to help control their asthma
and these inhalers should be carried by an asthmatic at all
times. If someone is suffering a serious asthma attack and
they either don't have their inhaler, or it isn't working,
call 911 immediately.

It's more than likely that your physician has prescribed
an inhaler for you if you suffer asthma attacks. There
are other things you can do during an attack. Talk with
your doctor to learn about the alternatives, as well as
checking out asthma support groups. They can help you
learn to live with it more comfortably.

One of the easiest ways to help control your asthma is to
identify what triggers typically cause your asthma attacks
and avoid them as best you can. If you find your trigger is
exercise you should discuss an alternative exercise program 

with your doctor. It is important to do a certain amount of
dalily physical activity but you need to find an exercise
that doesn't aggravate your asthma.

Asthma can be easily tackled if you know how to handle it
properly. For this you must consult you doctor to gain
information and clarifications about it. Asthmatics also
have the responsibility to enlighten there near and dear
ones about their condition so that they can help in case of
an attack.

About the author: Stephanie Winkton is the your host at
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