Does persistent asthma increase the risk of heart rhythm disorders? New research suggests a connection between the two conditions, highlighting the importance of addressing heart-healthy behaviors for asthma patients.

Asthma and Atrial Fibrillation: The Connection

A recent study has found that people with persistent asthma may have a 1.5 times higher risk of developing a heart rhythm disorder called atrial fibrillation (AFib) compared to those without asthma. The study, which analyzed data from 6,615 participants over nearly 13 years, showed that the 150 participants with persistent asthma, requiring daily medication to control their condition, were more likely to be diagnosed with AFib than those without asthma.

Inflammation: A Common Link

The researchers believe that inflammation may be a key factor connecting asthma and AFib. Inflammation is a risk factor for both conditions, and the study found that people with persistent asthma had the highest levels of inflammation. However, even after adjusting for these inflammation markers, the relationship between asthma and AFib remained, suggesting that “there may be specific unique patterns of inflammation not identified or even other non-inflammatory pathways that may be driving an increased risk.”

The Importance of Heart-Healthy Behaviors for Asthma Patients

The study’s findings highlight the need for doctors to discuss the association between asthma and AFib with their patients. Dr. Matthew Tattersall, the study’s lead author, stated that “being aware there is this association means we need to help patients focus on these primary prevention things we know we should be doing but that are often the hardest things to do,” such as exercising, maintaining a healthy weight, and following a heart-healthy, low-sodium diet.

Previous Studies and Diverse Participant Representation

Previous studies conducted in other countries have also found a connection between asthma and AFib. The new study, however, is the first in the U.S. and the first to include a racially diverse group of participants, with 27% African American, 12% Chinese, and 22% Hispanic.

Atrial Fibrillation: A Serious Heart Condition

Atrial fibrillation is a serious heart condition marked by a quivering or irregular heartbeat, which can lead to heart failure, other heart-related complications, and blood clots. If a clot leaves the heart and travels to the brain, it can cause a stroke. People with untreated AFib are nearly five times more likely to have a stroke than those without this heart problem.

Asthma: A Prevalent Chronic Condition

Over 25 million Americans have asthma, a chronic disease caused by inflammation in the bronchial tubes, or airways, in the lungs. People with persistent asthma are prescribed daily controller medications to keep their airways from tightening up and prevent coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest tightness.

The connection between asthma and AFib suggests that doctors should be proactive in discussing the importance of heart-healthy behaviors with their asthma patients, as these behaviors can not only help manage asthma but also reduce the risk of developing atrial fibrillation.

How can the link between asthma and atrial fibrillation impact patient care? The study findings indicate that healthcare providers should closely monitor asthma patients for potential heart rhythm issues and emphasize the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle to mitigate the risk.

What are some potential reasons for the increased risk of atrial fibrillation in people with persistent asthma? The researchers believe that in addition to shared inflammation, there may be “specific unique patterns of inflammation not identified or even other non-inflammatory pathways” that contribute to the elevated risk.

Why is it significant that this new study included a racially diverse group of participants? Previous research on the asthma-AFib connection had been conducted in other countries, so this U.S.-based study with a more representative sample population provides important insights into how the relationship may manifest across different demographics.

How can asthma patients take proactive steps to reduce their risk of developing atrial fibrillation? The study authors recommend that asthma patients focus on heart-healthy behaviors such as regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and following a low-sodium, heart-healthy diet. These lifestyle modifications can help manage both asthma and minimize the risk of heart rhythm disorders.

What are the potential consequences of untreated atrial fibrillation? Untreated AFib can lead to serious complications, including an increased risk of heart failure and stroke. People with untreated AFib are nearly five times more likely to have a stroke compared to those without the condition, underscoring the importance of early detection and management.

Persistent asthma linked to increased risk for heart rhythm disorder

Please note: This article was published more than two years ago, so some information may be outdated. If you have questions about your health, always contact a health care professional.

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(FatCamera/E+, Getty Images)

People with persistent asthma could be at 1.5 times higher risk of developing a heart rhythm disorder called atrial fibrillation than those without asthma, new research shows.

The study used data collected on 6,615 people in six areas around the country who were followed for nearly 13 years. When the study started, none of the participants had heart disease. Researchers concluded that the 150 participants with persistent asthma – those who required medication daily to control their condition – were more likely to be diagnosed with AFib than those without asthma.

Inflammation is a risk factor for both asthma and AFib, and the study found people with persistent asthma had the highest levels of inflammation. But the research also suggests there may be more than inflammation connecting asthma to an irregular heartbeat.

“We initially suspected that the link between asthma and atrial fibrillation may be explained by high levels of common inflammation markers in the blood at the baseline of the study,” said study author Dr. Matthew Tattersall, an assistant professor of cardiovascular medicine at the University of Wisconsin in Madison. “These inflammation markers are higher in asthmatics and independently predict atrial fibrillation.”

But when he and his colleagues adjusted for those inflammation blood markers, the relationship between asthma and AFib did not significantly change, Tattersall said. That led them to believe “there may be specific unique patterns of inflammation not identified or even other non-inflammatory pathways that may be driving an increased risk.”

Previous studies done in other countries also have found a link between asthma and AFib. One study in Norway, with 54,567 adults, found having asthma was associated with a 38% increased risk of AFib.

The new study is the first in the U.S., according to study authors, and the first to include a racially diverse group of people; 27% of participants were African American, 12% Chinese and 22% Hispanic. The research was published Tuesday in the American Heart Association journal Circulation: Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology.

At least 5.2 million Americans are living with atrial fibrillation. The condition is marked by a quivering or irregular heartbeat called an arrhythmia. It can cause heart failure and other heart-related complications, as well as blood clots. If a clot leaves the heart and travels to the brain, it can cause a stroke.

People with untreated AFib are nearly five times more likely to have a stroke than those who do not have this heart problem.

Over 25 million Americans have asthma, a chronic disease caused by inflammation in the bronchial tubes, or airways, in the lungs. People with persistent asthma are prescribed daily controller medications to keep their airways from tightening up and prevent coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath or chest tightness.

Patients and doctors need to know about the association between asthma and AFib, said Dr. Marc Miller, a cardiac electrophysiologist and an assistant professor of cardiology at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City. But he cautioned the study doesn’t show asthma is causing AFib.

“The theory is they both have a common origin – systemic inflammation,” said Miller, who was not involved with the study. “But we don’t know if that is the reason asthma patients get atrial fibrillation or if it’s the therapies being used to treat the asthma that are inducing the atrial fibrillation.”

Tattersall said the connection between the two conditions suggests doctors should be talking to their asthma patients about the importance of heart-healthy behaviors, such as exercise, maintaining a healthy weight and eating a heart-healthy, low-sodium diet.

“Being aware there is this association means we need to help patients focus on these primary prevention things we know we should be doing but that are often the hardest things to do,” Tattersall said. “But they can help with asthma and they can also reduce risk for atrial fibrillation.”

If you have questions or comments about this story, please email [email protected].

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Cardiac Asthma: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Despite the name, cardiac asthma isn’t a type of asthma. It refers to breathing difficulty caused by fluid buildup in the lungs as a result of heart failure.

Cardiac asthma can be potentially life threatening, and a proper diagnosis is critical. However, it can be misdiagnosed as asthma due to the similarities between the symptoms. People with either condition can experience coughing, shortness of breath, and wheezing.

Keep reading as we break down everything you need to know about cardiac asthma, including what causes it, what symptoms occur, and how it’s treated.

Cardiac asthma is a collection of asthma-like respiratory symptoms caused by congestive heart failure. The term “cardiac asthma” was first coined in medical literature in 1833 by Dr. James Hope.

People with cardiac asthma typically experience symptoms such as coughing, trouble breathing, and shortness of breath due to pulmonary congestion. This is a buildup of fluid in your lungs that impairs your ability to oxygenate your blood.

Your heart has four chambers: the left atrium, left ventricle, right atrium, and right ventricle.

In people with congestive heart failure, the heart can’t properly pump blood out of the left ventricle or the pressure in the ventricle is high. This disruption in blood flow leads to increased blood pressure in the blood vessels of the lungs, which causes leakage and accumulation of fluid.

Symptoms of cardiac asthma include:

• wheezing
• trouble breathing
• rapid breathing
• coughing
• grunting
• bloody sputum
• frothy sputum
• orthopnea (shortness of breath when lying down)
• rales (abnormal sounds heard when listening to the lung with a stethoscope)
• paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea (waking up at night gasping for air)

Symptoms of cardiac asthma may be the initial symptoms of heart failure, or they may be present along with other signs of heart failure, such as:

• chest pain
• fainting
• fatigue
• irregular heart rate
• skin that appears blue
• swelling in the legs, feet, or ankles
• weight gain from fluid retention
• increased need to urinate, often at night

Cardiac asthma can be difficult to diagnose due to its similarity to asthma. Misdiagnosis is common. To differentiate between the two, a doctor will likely start by looking at your medical history and risk factors to determine whether heart failure is the cause.

Tests that may be performed to help diagnose heart failure include:

• Physical exam. The doctor may look for other signs of cardiac asthma and heart failure, such as abnormal sounds in your lungs when breathing and abnormal heart rate.
• Blood tests. The doctor may recommend a blood test to help diagnose conditions that can lead to heart failure, check for markers of increased fluid, and rule out other potential causes for your symptoms.
• Electrocardiogram. An electrocardiogram monitors the electric activity of your heart and helps identify abnormalities in your heart rhythm.
• Echocardiogram. An echocardiogram is a type of ultrasound that uses sound waves to produce a picture of your heart. The picture can show the doctor how much blood your heart is pumping and screen for irregularities or abnormalities in the pumping function.
• Chest X-ray. A chest X-ray can help identify an enlarged heart or fluid in your lungs.
• Breathing tests. Your doctor may recommend breathing tests like a spirometry test or a peak flow test to screen for lung problems.
• Other imaging techniques. A CT or MRI scan may also be used to produce images to assess the health of your heart.

Tips for your medical appointment

If you think you may be experiencing cardiac asthma, it’s critical to seek medical attention immediately.

Persistent wheezing, shortness of breath, and trouble breathing are all signs that you should talk with a medical professional, especially if your symptoms get worse when you lie down.

It can help to ask yourself the following questions while you’re waiting to see a doctor to help determine whether it’s cardiac asthma:

• Has anyone in my family experienced heart failure?
• Do I have any risk factors for heart failure, such as high blood pressure or coronary artery disease?
• Does anybody in my family have asthma?
• Have I had asthma before?
• Are there other potential causes for my breathing trouble, like the flu or a respiratory infection?
• Is my breathing trouble keeping me awake?

Was this helpful?

Classic asthma medications like bronchodilators are thought to have limited effectiveness for treating cardiac asthma. Treatment for cardiac asthma involves addressing the underlying heart failure and fluid buildup in the lungs.

Medications

Medications traditionally used to treat an emergency case of cardiac asthma include:

• morphine
• furosemide or diuretics to remove fluid
• nitroglycerin

Once your symptoms stabilize, you may be given ACE inhibitors or beta-blockers or both to prevent another episode. ACE inhibitors help widen blood vessels and unload the heart, while beta-blockers slow your heart rate and lower your blood pressure.

Oxygen and ventilation

If your body isn’t receiving enough oxygen, you’ll likely be given oxygen or put on a noninvasive ventilator. In severe cases, you could need a breathing tube. However, these treatments aren’t necessary if you’re able to breathe well enough to get adequate oxygen.

Surgery

Some people will need surgical interventions, such as an angioplasty or coronary bypass surgery, to improve blood flow to the heart and make the heart stronger. The final treatment option when all other treatments have failed is a heart transplant.

Lifestyle tips for cardiac asthma

Living an overall healthy lifestyle may help improve your heart failure symptoms or prevent heart failure in the first place. Some habits you can adopt include:

• exercising regularly
• avoiding smoking
• minimizing alcohol intake
• minimizing stress
• getting adequate sleep
• maintaining a healthy weight

Was this helpful?

Cardiac asthma is a secondary condition caused by heart failure. The outlook for people with heart failure improves the sooner they receive proper treatment. However, it can vary widely between people.

The life expectancy of somebody with cardiac asthma depends on how far their heart failure has progressed, the underlying cause, and their overall health.

Mortality rates at 1 year and 5 years after heart failure diagnosis are about 22 and 43 percent, respectively.

Cardiac asthma is a condition caused by heart failure that leads to asthma-like symptoms, such as wheezing, coughing, and trouble breathing. It’s caused by a buildup of fluid in the lungs due to the inability of the heart to effectively clear fluid from the lungs.

Cardiac asthma is often misdiagnosed as asthma, but a proper diagnosis is critical for receiving proper treatment maximizing your outlook.

Read this article in Spanish.

Pulmonologist Natalya Yuryevna Kopovaya spoke about the symptoms and causes of bronchial asthma — FSBI “NMIC TPM” of the Ministry of Health of Russia

Bronchial asthma is a chronic disease of the bronchi. Currently, the disease is manageable, and with adequate treatment, periods of remission can last for several years. We talked about bronchial asthma with Natalya Yurievna Kopova, a pulmonologist at the National Medical Research Center for TPM of the Russian Ministry of Health.

How does bronchial asthma manifest itself?

The main manifestations include an attack of suffocation, with predominant difficulty in exhaling, wheezing, paroxysmal cough, dry or with sputum (more often at night), shortness of breath. With an exacerbation of bronchial asthma, these symptoms may be accompanied by bloating of the chest, difficulty in speaking, drowsiness and palpitations. In atopic bronchial asthma, asthma attacks are often accompanied by a runny nose (stuffiness or watery discharge, sneezing) and skin itching, especially when in contact with an allergen (for example, when staying in a dusty room, as well as during the flowering period).

Asthma bronchospasm is reversible, an asthma attack can be stopped after dissociation from the “guilty allergen” and under the influence of drugs. After the cessation of an asthma attack, the disease itself does not go away.

How common is this condition?

Bronchial asthma affects about 6% of the world’s adult population. In Russia, the prevalence of bronchial asthma ranges from 2.6% to 20.3% in different regions.

Why does asthma occur?

The main role is assigned to an excessively strong response to various factors: allergens (house dust mites, pollen, mold fungi, food products) and non-specific irritants (pungent odor, tobacco smoke, physical activity, cold air, viruses, bacteria, stress). Chronic inflammation develops in the bronchial mucosa and a tendency to bronchospasm is formed. This feature of the response of the bronchi to allergens can be inherited and is called atopy. The allergen causes the formation of antibodies. When exposed to the allergen + antibody complex on the cells of the bronchial mucosa, histamine and other biologically active substances are released, which cause an asthma attack. This form of bronchial asthma is called atopic, it is often combined with allergic rhinitis. There is also an infection-dependent form of bronchial asthma, in which there is no clear influence of the external aspect. This form is often combined with chronic bronchitis, has a more severe course, and is more difficult to treat. Sometimes seizures can be triggered by medications (eg, aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).

How dangerous is bronchial asthma?

Asthma flare-ups can be very severe and life-threatening. In an acute attack of suffocation, which is characterized by rapidly progressive shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, a feeling of tightness in the chest, respiratory failure may develop, leading to severe oxygen starvation of all organs, including the brain. If treatment is not started in a timely manner, a severe life-threatening condition may develop – a prolonged attack of suffocation, which cannot be relieved within a few hours with the use of conventional anti-asthma drugs. This condition requires emergency medical attention.

You can make an appointment with a pulmonologist at the National Medical Research Center for TPM of the Russian Ministry of Health by calling 8(495) 790-71-72.

symptoms, causes and treatments

1 Asthma : causes, symptoms and effective treatments

• 1.1 Asthma: symptoms, causes and treatments
  • 1.1.1 What is asthma?
• 1.2 Related videos:
• 1.3 Asthma: symptoms, causes and treatments
  • 1.3.1 Main symptoms of asthma:
• 1.4 Causes of asthma

90 065 1.5 Asthma diagnosis: what you need to know

• 1. 5. 1 Analysis of symptoms and medical history
• 1.5.2 Functional tests
• 1.5.3 Allergy tests
• 1.6 Basic asthma management
  • 1.6.1 Inhaled medicines
  • 1.6.2 Systemic medicines
  • 1.6.3 Vaccination
  • 1.6.4 Steroids
  • 1.6.5 Trigger removal

  90 070

• 1.7 Inhalation medicines for asthma
  • 1.7.1 What is inhalation drugs?
  • 1.7.2 How do inhalants work?
  • 1.7.3 Which inhalers are used to treat asthma?
  • 1.7.4 How to use the inhaler correctly?
• 1.8 Asthma folk remedies
• 1.9 Key recommendations for patients with asthma
• 1.10 The role of nutrition in the treatment and prevention of asthma
  • 1.10.1 The impact of diet on asthma

  900 70

• 1.11 Sports and exercise are an important component of treatment asthma
• 1.12 How can I prevent an asthma attack?
  • 1.12.1 Take preventive measures
  • 1. 12.2 Know how to deal with an asthma attack
• 1.13 Q&A:
  • • 1.13.0.1 What is asthma?
    • 1.13.0.2 What are the symptoms of asthma?
    • 1.13.0.3 What factors contribute to the development of asthma?
    • 1.13.0.4 How is asthma treated?
    • 1.13.0.5 Can asthma be completely cured?
    • 1.13.0.6 Is it possible to get asthma at any age?

Find out what asthma is, its symptoms and causes, and what treatments are available. How to take medicines correctly and what measures will help prevent exacerbation of asthma. Useful information for those who have experienced this disease or are worried about the health of their loved ones.

One of the most common diseases of the respiratory system is asthma. This disease is characterized by airway obstruction caused by inflammation and bronchial constriction. Patients with asthma experience attacks of difficulty breathing, rapid heart rate, coughing, and shortness of breath.

Asthma is latent, and many of its symptoms can be interpreted as signs of other diseases. Therefore, recognizing asthma is quite difficult. However, knowledge of the causes and risk factors, as well as the symptoms of this disease, can help to identify its presence in time and prescribe effective treatment.

In this article we will talk about the causes of asthma, the main symptoms and methods of its treatment. You will also learn about prevention of this disease and how to reduce the risk of developing and exacerbating asthma. Careful study of this information will help maintain the health of the respiratory system for many years.

Asthma: symptoms, causes and treatments

What is asthma?

Asthma is a chronic disease that affects the bronchi of the lungs. It causes the bronchi to become more sensitive and react to various irritants such as allergens, smoke, cold air or excessive physical activity.

The main symptom of asthma is shortness of breath, which can occur during exercise or at rest. Other symptoms may include coughing, especially at night, and wheezing in the chest.

Asthma can have a variety of causes, including heredity, environmental exposure, and even certain foods. However, most people with asthma can manage their symptoms with appropriate treatment.

• Asthma treatment usually includes the use of inhalers to make breathing easier and medicines to reduce inflammation in the bronchi.
• It is also very important to pay attention to the environment. For example, you can avoid smoke, use air conditioners or air purifiers, and watch out for foods that may trigger an allergic reaction.
• It is important to remember that asthma treatment must be individualized and prescribed by a physician. Patients can receive advice and guidance from a specialist to manage their symptoms and prevent disease progression.

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Asthma: symptoms, causes and treatments

Main symptoms of asthma:

9 0002 Asthmatic cough is one of the most common symptoms of asthma. It can appear both at night and during the day, and is accompanied by difficulty breathing.

In addition, patients with asthma may experience chest pressure, palpitations, and chest discomfort.

Large amounts of mucus are also common, which can also cause breathing difficulties.

In some cases, asthma may present with occasional attacks triggered by environmental factors.

• Difficulty breathing. One of the most obvious signs of asthma is a disturbance in the normal functioning of the respiratory system.
• Severe cough. Asthmatic cough worse at night and may disturb sleep.
• Chest pressure. Some patients notice a feeling of pressure or constriction in the chest.
• Large amount of mucus. Asthma may have difficulty clearing mucus from the airways.

Causes of Asthma

Asthma is a chronic disease that can be caused by various causes. One of the main reasons is genetic predisposition. If someone from close relatives has asthma, then you are much more likely to have it.

Allergens such as pollen, dust, pets, pollen mites, etc. can also cause asthma. Having allergies can also increase the risk of asthma.

Some people may develop asthma as a result of occupational activities that involve chemicals and other harmful substances such as paints, solvents and smoke.

Being overweight can also increase the risk of asthma and make it worse. Smoking can also lead to the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, which increases the risk of asthma.

Diagnosis of asthma: what you need to know

Analysis of symptoms and medical history

Diagnosis of asthma begins with a thorough analysis of the patient’s symptoms and medical history. The doctor needs to know when and how often the signs of the disease appear, how severe they are, what medications the patient has taken in the past.

It is also important to find out if the patient’s relatives have asthma or other allergic diseases such as eczema or allergic rhinitis. This will allow the doctor to determine the risk group and adjust the choice of diagnostic method.

Functional tests

Functional tests are special tests that allow you to determine the degree of impairment of the respiratory system. With their help, you can determine the presence of asthma and assess its severity.

One of the most common functional tests is peak flowmetry, which measures the flow of exhaled air. Spirometry can also be done, which measures the volume and speed of air passing through the lungs. These tests allow you to compare the results with healthy people and determine the presence of asthma.

Allergy testing

Allergy testing is done when an allergic disease is suspected. Their goal is to identify substances that can cause an allergic reaction and, accordingly, provoke an asthma attack.

The initial phase of allergy testing consists in applying a special solution containing the allergen to the skin. In case of a positive reaction at the stage of application and analysis of the result, patients are prescribed additional studies.

Diagnosing asthma is a complex process that involves several steps, but it can help doctors treat the disease faster and more accurately and improve the patient’s quality of life. Early diagnosis makes treatment more effective and helps patients live active and fulfilling lives.

Basic asthma treatment

Inhalation medicines

Inhalation is a method of taking medicines through inhalers. This method is the most effective and safest way to treat asthma. Inhalation drugs act directly on the lungs, ensuring the rapid penetration of the drug into the body.

Systemic drugs

This method of asthma treatment is based on the use of drugs in the form of tablets or injections. It is prescribed in the case when the indicators of the disease worsen, and inhalants do not work.

Vaccination

Patients who are frequently exposed to allergens are usually given a specific vaccination to desensitize the body to the allergen and make it less susceptible to asthmatic attacks. Vaccines are usually given based on a test that looks for allergens that cause asthma.

Steroids

Standard asthma treatment protocol includes steroids such as prednisone and beclomethasone. Steroids help reduce inflammation and swelling of the bronchial tubes, which reduces the chance of an asthma attack.

Removal of triggers

An important method of treating asthma is the removal of triggers that cause asthma attacks. This may include regular cleaning or an air purification system to help avoid allergens that trigger attacks.

Asthma inhalers

What are inhalers?

Inhaled asthma medicines are medicines that are taken into the body through the respiratory system. Inhalation is the most effective way to deliver drug components directly to the lungs. Medicines of this type allow you to clear the airways and reduce the risk of negative side effects.

How do inhalers work?

Inhalation drugs act directly on the lungs, and not on the organs and systems of the body as a whole. They help relax smooth muscles that can contract, causing airway obstruction, and reduce the amount of secretions that can build up in the lungs, making breathing easier.

Which inhalers are used to treat asthma?

Asthma inhalers fall into two categories: fast-acting and long-acting. Rapid-acting drugs (bronchodilators) work in a few minutes and help relieve asthma attacks of shortness of breath. Long-acting drugs are used to prevent asthma attacks and increase the duration of the intervals between them.

• Bronchodilators: salibutamol, terbutaline, albuterol and others.
• Glucocorticosteroids: beclomethasone, bulesonide, fluticasone and others.
• Combined preparations: symbicort, duaklir glucoside, seretide.

How to use the inhaler correctly?

Inhalers can be of different types, so before you start taking the drug, you must carefully read the instructions and follow their recommendations. Usually, a special inhaler is used, which converts the drug into small particles, which then pass through the mouth and reach the lungs. After use, the inhaler should be rinsed with warm water to remove any medication residue and prevent contamination.

Asthma folk remedies

Asthma is a serious condition that can lead to life-threatening situations. Although scientists have developed many different treatments, some patients use traditional folk remedies to relieve symptoms and reduce the risk of flare-ups.

1. Garlic. This simple and affordable spice can help improve lung function and reduce airway inflammation. It is best consumed fresh, adding to salads and dishes.

2. Turmeric. This spicy root contains curcumin, a substance with anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce the severity of asthma attacks. It is recommended to add turmeric to meals or take it as a supplement in the form of capsules.

3. Eucalyptus leaf tea. Eucalyptus leaves contain eucalyptus oil, which can help relieve coughing, one of the most bothersome symptoms of asthma. Eucalyptus leaf tea can also relieve tension and reduce the risk of flare-ups.

4. Oak bark smoke. If you feel the onset of an asthma attack, try lighting and inhaling oak bark smoke. It can help expand the bronchi and reduce inflammation in the airways.

While home remedies can help relieve asthma symptoms, it’s always a good idea to check with your doctor before using any new treatments or supplements.

Key recommendations for patients with asthma

Asthma is a chronic bronchial disease that severely limits the lives of patients. At the same time, proper treatment and following a few simple recommendations helps to control symptoms and live a fulfilling life.

• Regular health check-ups – Patients with asthma should have regular check-ups and tests. This helps prevent exacerbations and correct treatment in time.
• Avoid recurring allergens and irritants – It’s important to know what triggers your asthma attack and try to minimize exposure to these substances. Determine what your triggers are and avoid them.
• Regular medication use – the use of drugs should be regular and agreed with the doctor. This reduces symptoms and reduces the risk of asthma exacerbation.
• Organize a healthy lifestyle – As with any disease, physical activity and a healthy diet can help control symptoms and strengthen the body.
• Be prepared for unexpected flare-ups – It’s important to know how to respond quickly to asthma flare-ups and what to do in certain situations. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and keep your asthma medications with you at all times.

The role of nutrition in the treatment and prevention of asthma

The impact of nutrition on asthma

Proper nutrition plays an important role in the treatment and prevention of asthma. Excess weight can increase the risk of exacerbation of the disease. Therefore, it is recommended to control your weight.

To reduce the number of asthma attacks, include in your diet foods rich in magnesium, such as nuts, beans, spinach and bananas. Magnesium helps to relax the airways and improve bronchial patency.

Vitamin C foods such as citrus fruits, red peppers and strawberries are also recommended. Vitamin C improves immunity and reduces the risk of developing asthma.

• Do not abuse products containing histamine. It can be alcohol, canned food, chocolate and red fruits. Histamine can trigger an allergic reaction, making asthma symptoms worse.
• Dairy products, fatty meats and fried foods can also aggravate asthma symptoms. It is recommended to reduce the amount of these foods consumed in favor of healthier and lighter meals.
• Food allergens that can exacerbate asthma should be avoided whenever possible. These foods include eggs, scallops, shellfish, nuts, and many others.

However, before changing your diet, you need to consult a specialist and find out which foods can be useful or harmful for a particular patient.

Foods useful for asthmaticsProduct Benefits

Nuts	Rich in magnesium, relaxes the respiratory tract
Beans	Contains magnesium and vitamin C, improves immunity
Spinach	Rich in magnesium, improves bronchial patency 9039 2
Bananas	Contains magnesium, improves bronchial patency
Citrus fruits	Contains vitamin C, improves immunity
Red pepper	Contains vitamin C, improves immunity
strawberries	Contains vitamin C, improves immunity

Sports and physical exercises – an important component of asthma treatment

It seems that sports and physical exercises can be a difficult test for people suffering from people suffering stma. Nevertheless, according to doctors and experts in the field of healthy lifestyle, regular physical activity is an important condition for improving the quality of life of patients.

One of the reasons why life can be so difficult for people with asthma is that they may suffer from limited breathing. However, regular exercise in the gym, running, swimming and other forms of physical activity can increase capillaries and improve oxygen supply to the body, which will positively affect lung function and the body as a whole.

• Lung strengthening . Sports and exercise help to improve respiratory function and strengthen lung function, which is especially important for people suffering from bronchial asthma.
• Improvement of the heart and blood circulation . Sports help to strengthen the heart and maintain healthy circulation, which is especially beneficial for people with asthma because it improves oxygen supply.
• Strengthening the immune system . Physical activity helps to strengthen the immune system, increase the level of endorphins (hormones of happiness), which have a beneficial effect on the activity of proteins and blood enzymes. It helps prevent the development of various diseases, including asthma.

It is important to remember that physical activity should not be too intense and the patient should not be more stressful than he can bear. It is always recommended to consult a doctor and gradually increase the load in order to avoid possible complications.

Sports recommended for people with asthma: Sports that may be contraindicated for people with asthma 2

Athletics Gymnastics Football YOGA Hockey

How to prevent asthma attack?

Take preventive measures

You can prevent an asthma attack by following a number of preventive measures:

• Avoid triggers . These can be allergens (pollen, dust, pet hair), chemicals (exhaust fumes, varnishes, paints), dust and tobacco smoke.
• Avoid physical activity if possible . Exercise and sports can trigger asthma attacks. However, if you have the opportunity to take a course of therapeutic exercises, this will not only help prevent attacks, but also strengthen the lungs and improve overall health.
• Wear natural materials and use hypoallergenic cosmetics to avoid contact with substances that can trigger an allergic attack.
• Get treated and take medicines prescribed by your doctor. Some medicines help prevent asthma attacks, reduce the frequency of them, and improve overall well-being.

Know how to deal with an asthma attack

It is not always possible to prevent an asthma attack. Therefore, it is important to know how to act if it occurs:

1. Do not panic . First, try to calm down and breathe slowly, deeply.
2. Use the inhaler, if available, as directed and directed by your doctor.
3. If you don’t have an inhaler, follow this algorithm :

Step 1:	Sit in a comfortable position and open a window or door for fresh air.
Step 2:	Place your hands on your stomach and breathe slowly, deeply through your nose.
Step 3:	Inhale as far as you can through your nose, then exhale quickly, pursing your lips.
Step 4:	Repeat step 3 until the seizure resolves or medical attention is provided.

Q&A:

What is asthma?

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease characterized by dyspnoea, coughing, redness of the face and neck. It occurs due to constriction of the bronchi and increased mucus production, which makes breathing difficult and leads to suffocation.

What are the symptoms of asthma?

Asthma symptoms may include coughing, sneezing, shortness of breath, chest itching, chest pain, heavy breathing, reduced lung capacity, and others. They can worsen at certain periods of life or when exposed to various factors, such as allergens, air pollution levels and physical activity.

What factors contribute to the development of asthma?

There are many factors that can contribute to the development of asthma, such as genetic predisposition, passive smoking, allergies, environmental conditions, increased emotional stress, and others. It is often important to identify a specific cause in order to choose the right therapy.

How is asthma treated?

Treatment of asthma may include the use of inhaled drugs such as corticosteroids, adrenomimetics and anticholinergics, oxygen, treatment of allergies and other conditions that can exacerbate attacks. Often, in addition to deep therapy, it is important to avoid allergens, monitor the daily routine, allocate time for sports and a healthy lifestyle.