Effective Asthma Treatment in Nagpur: Breathe Easy with Expert Care
Quick Enquiry
What is Asthma?
Asthma is a chronic, long-lasting lung condition that causes coughing, wheezing, and breathing problems. It can be seen in any age group and affects people living in areas with diverse geographical climates.
During an asthma attack, the lungs don’t function properly. The airways become inflamed, narrow and swollen. Also, they produce extra mucus, which makes breathing a difficult task.
Types of Asthma
There are several types of asthma, each with unique triggers and characteristics. Here’s an overview of the most common types:
Allergic Asthma
Some people are allergic to things like pollen, dust, pet dander, and bird droppings. If they breathe in the air with such allergens present, it triggers their asthma. Soon, the airways become inflamed and worsening the situation.
Non-Allergic (Intrinsic) Asthma
Generally, non-allergic asthma is more common in adults. It happens due to a specific trigger, such as exercising, laughing too much, cold air, or other respiratory issues.
Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction (EIB)
When any type of physical activity triggers asthma in a person, we call it exercise-induced asthma. People with exercise-induced asthma experience coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath.
Occupational Asthma
This is similar to allergic asthma, but it is caused by exposure to specific allergens at the workplace. We can see that symptoms of asthma improve if a person moves away from the workplace.
Cough-Variant Asthma
This is a type of asthma that is very difficult to diagnose. People with cough-variant asthma typically experience a continuous dry cough as a symptom. They may not have wheezing or shortness of breath.
Nocturnal Asthma
Some people experience asthma symptoms only at night. Changes in night temperatures, allergens or dust in bedding, or eating something cold before going to sleep can trigger nocturnal asthma.
Aspirin-Exacerbated Respiratory Disease (AERD)
Just like allergens can cause asthma, certain medicines can also trigger asthma. Some people get asthmatic after consuming NSAIDS – Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Adult-Onset Asthma
Generally, people develop asthma in childhood. However, it can also occur in adulthood due to various factors. It can be long-term and requires treatment to keep it under control.
Severe Asthma
Depending on the severity of asthma, it can be classified into three types. Mild, moderate and severe. In mild asthma, people observe symptoms once or twice a week.
A person with moderate asthma may experience the symptoms daily. However, they can be controlled with medications.
Severe asthma refers to a stage where a person gets symptoms of asthma daily, and the episodes of breathlessness repeat multiple times in a single day despite asthma medications. In such cases only medicines alone are not sufficient, and biologic therapies are required.
How Does it Feel to Have Asthma? | Symptoms
People with asthma often have the following symptoms.
- Chest tightness, pain or pressure.
- Coughing (especially at night).
- Shortness of breath.
- Wheezing
Every asthma attack is unique, and people experience different symptoms at different times.
What Triggers Asthma?
Asthma can be genetic, caused by allergens or due to respiratory issues.
Who is at risk of developing Asthma?
Asthma can affect anyone. Here are certain factors that increase the likelihood of developing it.
Genetic Factors
- Family History: If a parent or sibling has asthma, your chances of developing it are higher.
- Atopic Conditions: Having conditions like eczema or hay fever (allergic rhinitis) increases the risk.
Age and Gender
- Children: Asthma often begins in childhood, with boys being more affected than girls.
- Adults: In adulthood, women are more likely to develop asthma.
Environmental Exposures
- Allergens: Exposure to dust mites, mold, pet dander, and cockroach droppings can trigger asthma.
- Air Pollution: Living in highly polluted areas increases asthma risk.
- Secondhand Smoke: Exposure to tobacco smoke, especially during pregnancy or in early childhood, raises the risk.
Lifestyle and Health Factors
- Obesity: Being overweight is linked to a higher risk of developing asthma.
- Occupational Exposures: Jobs that involve exposure to chemicals, dust, or fumes can increase the risk of asthma.
Race and Ethnicity
- Ethnic Groups: African American and Puerto Rican populations have higher asthma rates and more severe symptoms.
How Does the Climate of Nagpur Affect People with Asthma?
Nagpur’s climate and air quality can significantly influence asthma symptoms. Here’s how:
Hot and Dry Conditions
Nagpur experiences extremely high temperatures, with highs reaching around 113°F (45°C). Such intense heat can:
- Dry out the airways, leading to irritation and narrowing.
- Increase the concentration of airborne pollutants, triggering asthma attacks.
- Promote the growth of allergens like dust mites and mold.
Air Quality Concerns
The city’s air quality index (AQI) often falls into the “Moderate” category, indicating a mid-level risk for asthma symptoms. Common pollutants include.
- PM2.5 and PM10 particles: Fine particulate matter that can penetrate deep into the lungs, aggravating asthma.
- Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂): Emitted from vehicular and industrial sources, contributing to respiratory issues.
- Ozone (O₃): Ground-level ozone can irritate the airways and worsen asthma symptoms.
Exposure to these pollutants cause coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
Seasonal Factors
During the monsoon season, the combination of rain and humidity can:
- Increase mold growth, which is a known asthma trigger.
- Elevate pollen levels, as plants release pollen during this time.
- Causes dampness, leading to the proliferation of dust mites.
Recommendations for Asthma Management in Nagpur From an Asthma Specialist in Nagpur
To minimise asthma flare-ups in Nagpur’s climate:
- Stay indoors during peak heat hours and when air quality is poor.
- Use air purifiers with HEPA filters to reduce indoor allergens.
- Keep windows closed to prevent outdoor pollutants from entering.
- Stay hydrated to keep the airways moist.
- Monitor pollen and air quality forecasts to plan outdoor activities accordingly.
- Consult an asthma specialist in Nagpur to adjust asthma medications as needed.
As an Asthma Specialist in Nagpur, How Does Dr. Sameer Diagnose Asthma?
Asthma is diagnosed through a combination of your medical history, physical examination, and certain tests. Here’s how the process generally works:
- Medical History
We start by asking about your symptoms, including:
- How often do you experience shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, or chest tightness?
- When these symptoms occur (e.g., during the night, after physical activity, or during specific seasons).
- Any family history of asthma, allergies, or other respiratory conditions.
- Exposure to triggers like allergens, smoke, or pollution.
- Physical Examination
We listen to your lungs using a stethoscope to check for wheezing (a high-pitched whistling sound during breathing) and other signs of asthma. We also check your nose and throat for signs of allergies, which are often linked with asthma.
- Spirometry (Lung Function Test)
Spirometer measures how much air you can breathe in and out. The results show how well your airways are functioning and can help identify airflow limitations characteristic of asthma.
- Peak Flow Measurement
A peak flow meter is a simple device used to measure how fast you can exhale air. It denotes how good your lungs are. People with asthma often have lower peak flow rates, which can fluctuate depending on asthma control.
- Methacholine Challenge Test
If the diagnosis is uncertain, a methacholine challenge test may be performed. Methacholine is a substance that can trigger asthma symptoms in people who have asthma. If your airways narrow significantly after inhaling methacholine, it suggests asthma.
- Exhaled Nitric Oxide Test
This test measures the level of nitric oxide in your breath. High levels of nitric oxide can indicate inflammation in the airways, which is common in asthma.
- Allergy Tests
If allergies are suspected to be contributing to asthma, the doctor may recommend skin tests or blood tests to identify specific allergens (like pollen, mold, pet dander, or dust mites) that may be triggering asthma symptoms.
- Imaging Tests
In some cases, a chest X-ray may be ordered to rule out other lung conditions, such as infections or structural issues, though X-rays aren’t typically used to diagnose asthma directly.
- Assessment of Response to Asthma Medication
Sometimes, asthma is diagnosed after monitoring how well symptoms improve with asthma medications like inhalers. A positive response to these medications often helps confirm asthma as the diagnosis.
Asthma diagnosis may involve several steps to ensure the most accurate results, and the right treatment plan can then be developed based on your specific symptoms and triggers.
Treatments for Asthma
Asthma can be managed, but it cannot be cured. The aim of asthma treatment is to control the symptoms and prevent further attacks. It typically includes:
Long-Term Control Medications
These help reduce airway inflammation and prevent asthma attacks:
- Inhaled corticosteroids (reduce inflammation)
- Leukotriene modifiers (block chemicals that cause swelling)
- Long-acting beta-agonists (LABAs) (help open airways)
Quick-Relief (Rescue) Medications
Used during asthma attacks for fast relief:
- Short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs) (relax muscles around airways for quick breathing)
- Anticholinergics (help open airways)
Allergy Treatments
If allergies trigger asthma, treatments may include:
- Antihistamines
- Allergy shots (immunotherapy)
Biologic Therapies
For severe asthma, biologic drugs target specific molecules in the immune system to reduce inflammation and control symptoms. We run a speciality asthma clinic every Tuesday for difficult-to-treat or severe asthma.
Lifestyle Changes
- Avoiding triggers (e.g., allergens, pollution)
- Regular monitoring of lung function with peak flow meters
Dr. Sameer personalises the treatment plans based on the severity and triggers of asthma. Regular follow-ups are necessary to adjust medications.
When to seek immediate medical help?
You should seek immediate medical help for an asthma attack if you experience any of the following:
Severe Shortness
of Breath
If you are struggling to breathe, even while resting, or if you cannot catch your breath despite using a rescue inhaler.
Wheezing or Coughing That Won’t Stop
If you are struggling to breathe, even while resting, or if you cannot catch your breath despite using a rescue inhaler.
Difficulty Speaking or
Talking
If you’re unable to speak full sentences because of shortness of breath, or if your breathing becomes very labored.
Chest
Tightness
If your chest feels extremely tight or heavy, making it difficult to breathe.
No Improvement After Using a Rescue Inhaler
If your rescue inhaler (bronchodilator) does not improve symptoms, or if you need to use it more frequently than usual.
Bluish Lips or
Fingernails
This could indicate that not enough oxygen is getting into your blood, signalling a medical emergency.
Confusion or
Drowsiness
If you feel unusually sleepy, confused, or disoriented, it may indicate that you’re not getting enough oxygen.
Call Emergency
Services
If your symptoms continue or worsen despite using medications, don’t wait. Seek emergency medical assistance immediately.
