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Pollution is the culprit

Postnoon News | January 25, 2012 | 0 Comments

Pollution levels have been steadily rising over the years and so has the incidence of asthma. “Factors like increased pollutants, smoking, air conditioned environment, mosquito repellants, deodorants, alcohol and stress have been contributing to the increase in the incidence of asthma,” says Dr Mohd Hidayath Hussain, consultant pulmonologist at Mahavir Hospital.

He goes on to add that asthma is not a disease but a disorder. “In some cases it sets in early in children and at other times it could affect adults as well. Asthma can also be triggered due to allergy to certain types of foods like beans and peanuts. So an effective way to control asthma would be to first identify trigger factors and then avoid them,” he says. It is best to steer clear of flowers, construction activity, aerosol sprays, new plants, canned foods, paints etc to avoid an asthmatic attack, he explains. In certain people eggs, certain types of fish and oranges could also trigger an attack.

There are also medicines that can effectively control asthma. “There are both oral tablets and inhalers available for the control and treatment of asthma. Of these inhalers are a better option since it is a target based therapy. Also since the dosage is rather low in inhalers they can be taken over a longer period of time,” says Dr Hidayath.

He goes on to add that a monthly visit to the doctor for asthma patients is recommended. “This helps monitor their condition and medication can be adjusted accordingly,” he explains, adding, “Most people respond better to different types of inhalers. Hence a frequent visit to the doctor can help determine the best course of treatment.”

Since there are some steroid based inhalers available as well, there are several concerns that are raised as well about their safety. But Dr Hidayath says, “Steroid based inhalers are perfectly safe as the dosage is low. But at the same time it is important to gargle regularly as prolonged usage of these can lead to candidiasis and certain dental infections as well.”

Dr Md Hidayath Hussain (Consultant Pulmonologist at Mahavir Hospital)

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