Asthma

Asthma: The Lung Menace

Asthma is an inflammatory disease that occurs in the airways of the lungs. It makes breathing difficult, consequently leading to ordinary physical activities becoming strenuous. Normally, during inhalation, air enters through your nose and passes down the throat into your airways, making it to your lungs. There are several small air passages in your lungs which help deliver oxygen from the air directly into your bloodstream. In the case of asthma, however, swelling takes place in the lining of the airways and the muscles present around them tighten. The airways are clogged with mucus, which further decreases the amount of air that can pass through. Such conditions then bring on an asthma “attack” – coughing and suffocation that are typical of asthma.

As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 27 million Americans have asthma. Among American children, it happens to be the most common chronic condition – 1 child out of 12 has asthma.

Asthma is commonly attributed to genetics, a history of viral infections during childhood, and exposure to possible allergens. Although the last cause is mostly associated with outside irritants such as dust and pollen, there are many indoor allergens that can lead to asthma as well.

Indoor Triggers of Asthma

• Household Dust 

When dust gets accumulated in various parts of your home or office, it becomes a problem. This is because dust easily tends to float in the air, leading to their inhalation. Flat surfaces such as floors, countertops, beds, and tables are prone to the build-up of dust. If these items are not cleaned regularly, the settled particles could become airborne and enter your nostrils, leading to asthma.

• Smoke from Tobacco

If there is any family member or employee who smokes indoors, it can become a potential irritant for those with asthma. Smoke particles tend to remain in the air long after the source of smoke (cigarette or cigar) has been snuffed out.

• Smoke from Stoves & Heaters

Indoor combustion appliances like gas or kerosene space heaters and gas stoves emit smoke that contains nitrogen dioxide. The presence of this gas increases the susceptibility to respiratory infections and can exacerbate asthma. It basically inflames the lining of the lungs that, in turn, reduces immunity to lung infections. This can cause breathing difficulty, wheezing, and spasmodic coughs. People with asthma are more at risk as nitrogen dioxide causes intense attacks at a more frequent pace.

• Pet DanderAsthma Pet Dander Dust Mites

Pet dander consists of tiny flecks of skin shed by your furry family members – pets. Generally, dogs, cats, birds, and other animals with fur shed often. Although apparently harmless, these tiny bits of skin can cause allergic reactions in certain people. Those with asthma are more likely to suffer from exposure to pet dander.

• Chemical Odors 

Chemical odors can be emitted from various sources such as pesticides, solvents, paints, adhesives, vinyl flooring and tiles, particleboard, toner from photocopiers, dry-cleaned garments, and cleaning agents used indoors. As these odors are stimulating, they can cause attacks in people with asthma.

• Other Smells

Certain fragrances such as scented soaps and detergents, room deodorizers, personal deodorants, cologne, and perfumes can lead to the presence of potential irritants in the air. These need to be removed to avoid any breathing problems or reactions in asthmatic individuals.