Asthma is one of the most common long-term lung conditions, affecting both children and adults. Yet many people live with uncontrolled symptoms because they fear inhalers or believe asthma cannot be managed. In this video, Dr. Dipak Viradia, Chest Physician & Intensivist, explains what asthma is, how to recognise it, and how to keep it under control.

What is asthma? Asthma is a chronic condition in which the airways, the breathing tubes that carry air to the lungs, become inflamed and extra-sensitive. When exposed to a trigger, the muscles around the airways tighten, the lining swells and more mucus is produced. This narrows the airways and makes breathing difficult. Asthma often runs in families and is commonly linked with allergies.

Symptoms of asthma. The common symptoms are breathlessness, wheezing (a whistling sound while breathing), chest tightness, and a cough that is often worse at night, early in the morning, after exercise or on exposure to cold air or dust. Some people have only a long-lasting dry cough. Symptoms may come and go, and can be mild in some people and severe in others.

Common triggers. Asthma symptoms are often set off by dust and dust mites, pollen, mould, pet dander, smoke (including cigarette and incense smoke), air pollution, strong smells, cold air, sudden weather changes, viral infections like colds and flu, physical exertion, and emotional stress. Certain medicines can also trigger symptoms in some people.

Signs of a severe asthma attack. Severe breathlessness that makes it hard to speak, lips or nails turning bluish, very fast breathing, drowsiness or confusion, and no relief from the reliever inhaler are signs of a medical emergency. Go to the hospital immediately.

How to prevent asthma attacks. Asthma cannot always be prevented, but with the right treatment most people can control it completely and live a normal, active life.

1. Use inhalers as prescribed. Inhalers deliver medicine directly into the lungs in very small doses, which makes them safer and more effective than tablets. Controller inhalers must be taken regularly, even when you feel well.
2. Learn the correct inhaler technique. Many attacks happen simply because the inhaler is not used properly. Ask your doctor to check your technique.
3. Identify and avoid your triggers. Keep your home dust-free, avoid smoke, prevent damp and mould, and wear a mask in dusty or polluted areas.
4. Get vaccinated. Annual flu vaccination and pneumococcal vaccination, when advised, help prevent infections that can trigger attacks.
5. Don’t stop treatment on your own. Stopping medicines when symptoms improve often leads to a flare-up.
6. Follow up regularly. Lung function tests like spirometry help your doctor track your asthma and adjust treatment.

Dr. Dipak Viradia
Chest Physician & Intensivist | Interventional Pulmonologist & ECMO Specialist
Rudrax Chest Clinic, 301, Solaris Royce, Opp. Old RTO, Athwagate, Ring Road, Surat – 395001
Appointment: +91 75676 19985
Website: www.drdipakviradia.com