Navigating Acute and Chronic Asthma Recognizing Differences, Identifying Symptoms, and Managing the Condition
Asthma, characterized by chronic airway inflammation, presents respiratory symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, cough, and chest tightness. Symptoms may vary in intensity and duration, leading to acute flare-ups, chronic intermittent episodes, or stable asthma. Understanding these differences is crucial for effective management and symptom relief.
Asthma, as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO), is a chronic lung condition that affects individuals of all ages. It is characterized by inflammation, the accumulation of mucus, and the constriction of muscles around the airways, leading to difficulty in breathing.
In an interview with Dial24news | Dr. Anusha CM, Consultant in Respiratory Medicine at Manipal Hospital in Malleshwaram, acute Asthma flare-ups can be triggered by various factors such as recent viral illnesses, sudden temperature changes, exposure to fumes, strenuous exercises, emotional stress, or discontinuation of inhaler use. These episodes typically start abruptly and require urgent treatment.
Dr. Anusha explains that acute asthma involves inflammation and obstruction of the medium and small-sized airways. This inflammation leads to increased muscle thickness in the airways, resulting in narrowing and restricted airflow, leading to symptoms like chest tightness, coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. While mild attacks may last a few minutes, severe ones can persist for hours or even days. Immediate medical attention is necessary for managing acute asthma, often requiring hospitalization.
Insights from Pulmonology Experts: Dr. Vivek Nangia and Dr. Anusha CM
According to Dr. Vivek Nangia, Principal Director and Head of Pulmonology at Max Super Speciality Hospital in New Delhi’s Saket, acute asthma, also known as an asthma exacerbation or flare, is characterized by a progressive increase in symptoms such as shortness of breath, cough, wheezing, or chest tightness, along with a decrease in lung function. These flares may necessitate emergency visits, hospitalization, and in severe cases, could be fatal. Symptoms of acute asthma can vary from mild to severe and may fluctuate over time. However, with appropriate treatment, asthma can be effectively managed.
Dr. Anusha CM explains chronic asthma as a condition where acute asthma worsens over time and becomes resistant to conventional management methods. Various factors contribute to chronic asthma, including respiratory viral infections, house dust mites, pollen, air pollution, stress, anxiety, fumes, and sudden exertional activities.
Distinguishing Acute and Chronic Asthma: Symptoms and Management Strategies
Acute Asthma:
Symptoms: Sudden onset of shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, chest tightness
Triggers: Recent viral illnesses, temperature changes, exposure to fumes, strenuous exercise, emotional stress, discontinuation of inhaler use
Management: Requires immediate medical attention, may involve emergency visits, hospitalization, and treatment with bronchodilators and corticosteroids
Chronic Asthma:
Symptoms: Persistent or recurring symptoms of shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, chest tightness
Triggers: Respiratory viral infections, allergens (e.g., house dust mites, pollen), air pollution, stress, anxiety, exposure to irritants
Management: Long-term management with controller medications (e.g., inhaled corticosteroids, long-acting bronchodilators), avoidance of triggers, regular monitoring, and asthma action plan development in collaboration with healthcare providers
Understanding and Tackling Childhood Anxiety: Unraveling Causes, Symptoms, and Expert Guidance for Parents
Expert Tips for Supporting Children with Anxiety: Navigating Common Concerns for Parents
Childhood anxiety is prevalent, affecting one in eight children. Here are expert tips to help parents navigate and support their child through anxiety. It’s normal for parents to worry about their child’s well-being, particularly regarding their mental and emotional health. Stress has become a significant factor impacting the lives of children, leading to intense, persistent behavior and heightened emotional reactions. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, anxiety disorders in children are widespread, underscoring the crucial role parents play in assisting their children in understanding and managing their anxious feelings.
Recognizing Symptoms and Understanding Causes of Childhood Anxiety
Symptoms to Watch for in Children:
Children experiencing anxiety problems often exhibit persistent worry or fear, accompanied by complaints of unexplained illnesses. They may avoid activities they once enjoyed and may struggle with sleep disturbances and decision-making difficulties.
Causes and Impact of Childhood Anxiety:
Several factors contribute to these symptoms, including heightened “fight or flight” responses and inherited anxious genes affecting brain function. Traumatic experiences such as loss, sickness, death, violence, or abuse can also trigger anxiety in children.
Childhood anxiety can impact various areas of brain function, affecting memory, language comprehension, and communication skills. This may hinder tasks such as planning, completing chores, and making rational decisions. Early intervention to address childhood anxiety is crucial for safeguarding healthy development.
