Asthma and Minority Health

People think of asthma management as only treating the syniptoms. But really, it's about preventing those symptoms in the first place. That starts with avoiding asthma attack triggers. That could mean being vigilant about the triggers you can control, like keeping secondhand smoke out, along wi...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inChicago Citizen Vol. 49; no. 5
Main Author Miller, Doriane C
Format Newspaper Article
LanguageEnglish
Published Chicago, Ill Chicago Weekend 23.04.2014
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Summary:People think of asthma management as only treating the syniptoms. But really, it's about preventing those symptoms in the first place. That starts with avoiding asthma attack triggers. That could mean being vigilant about the triggers you can control, like keeping secondhand smoke out, along with getting rid of dust and moid.There are also outdoor triggers like second hand smoke, dust, mold and car exhaust fumes. 1 ) Controller medications - If you have persistent asthma, controller medications can help prevent attacks because your airways don't react as strongly to triggers, including exercise. These asthma drugs, sometimes in the form of steroids, also reduce inflammation, swelling, and mucus production in the airways. 2) Rescue medications -These medications, sometimes called puffers, are used only when necessary, usually when someone is in the middle of an asthma attack or feels one coming on. The meds offer fast relief, but they don't prevent asthma attacks.