World Asthma Day is observed on the first Tuesday in May each year to raise awareness and support for those affected by the disease. World asthma Day is supported by the Global Initiative for Asthma and the World Asthma Foundation. Asthma for some people is no more than a minor nuisance, but for others it can be a life-threatening condition that must be closely monitored and controlled. Asthma sufferers experience constant lung inflammation which makes them susceptible to sudden bronchial swelling and airway restriction when exposed to certain triggers:
- Airborne objects like: Dust, Pollen, Pet Dander, Mold Spores
- Cold Air / Damp Night Air
- Physical Activity
- Smoke / Air Pollutants
- Stress / Emotional Distress
If triggers can be identified and avoided the possibility of a severe asthma attack can be greatly diminished.
Indications of severe asthma that require prompt medical attention include: experiencing rapid shortness of breath, breathing doesn’t improve with the use of a relief inhaler or breathing becomes difficult with minimal physical activity.
Untreated or severe asthma can develop into other serious conditions. Studies show a direct connection between severity of asthma as a child and the occurrence of COPD, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, later in life. Children who suffer from persistent asthma are nearly 32 times more likely to develop COPD in adulthood. COPD is on the rise in the United States and is currently the third leading cause of death.
Recognize World Asthma Day and bring attention to Lung Health this month by providing your referral network with educational materials on chronic lung conditions and the services that Home Health Care can provide as part of their treatment plan.
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