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Inhaled Reliever Therapies For Asthma

About The Study: In this network meta-analysis of patients with asthma, inhaled corticosteroids combined with formoterol and inhaled corticosteroids combined with short-acting β agonists were each associated with reduced asthma exacerbations and improved asthma control compared with short-acting β agonists alone.

Corresponding Author: To contact the corresponding author, Derek K. Chu, MD, PhD, email chudk@mcmaster.Ca.

To access the embargoed study: Visit our For The Media website at this link https://media.Jamanetwork.Com/

(doi:10.1001/jama.2024.22700)

Editor's Note: Please see the article for additional information, including other authors, author contributions and affiliations, conflict of interest and financial disclosures, and funding and support.

Embed this link to provide your readers free access to the full-text article This link will be live at the embargo time https://jamanetwork.Com/journals/jama/fullarticle/10.1001/jama.2024.22700?GuestAccessKey=dd710369-e153-4cee-b56d-c9c93d5ecf22&utm_source=For_The_Media&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=ftm_links&utm_content=tfl&utm_term=102824

Journal

JAMA

Combination Asthma Treatments Found More Effective Than SAMA-only Treatment

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Diwali 2024: Important Tips To Prevent Asthma Attacks As Pollution Rises During Festive Season

Diwali, the festival of lights, has arrived, bringing with it the warmth and joy of togetherness as families and friends gather to celebrate. However, alongside the festivities, there is also a surge in noise and air pollution, primarily due to the widespread burning of firecrackers. The lasting impact on air quality can increase health risks for all, especially for those with pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma. The smoke and Particulate Matter (PM) released can irritate the airways, cause inflammation, and exacerbate symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing.

Hence, we spoke to leading experts to understand common triggers and air pollutants during festive occasions like Diwali and how people with asthma can protect themselves and reduce flare-ups.

What Is Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic lung disease that can affect both adults and children. It is a condition that leads to inflammation and narrowing of the airways in the lungs, causing a combination of symptoms, such as cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 26.2 crore people worldwide had asthma in 2019, of which 4.55 lakh people succumbed to the condition.

While asthma is a manageable condition, the frequent flare-ups during Diwali and festivities can make it challenging to cope with the lung disease.

Also Read: Optimising Performance: Expert Shares Proven Tips for Asthmatic Athletes To Stay At Their Peak

Common Asthma Triggers During Diwali And Festive Seasons

Generally, there are several causes and triggers of asthma. Common indoor triggers include dust mites, mould, and pet dander, while outdoor allergens like pollen and mould can worsen symptoms. 

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, emotional stress, physical activity, and infections such as colds, flu, or COVID-19 can also exacerbate asthma. In addition, certain medications, particularly aspirin, can trigger severe reactions in some individuals with asthma.

However, asthma during Diwali can be triggered due to exposure to the smoke of fireworks, heavy dust, and air pollution, says Dr Srivatsa Lokeshwaran, Lead Consultant and Head of Department - Interventional Pulmonology and Lung Transplant, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru.

He says, "In order to prevent the onset of an attack, people who are asthmatic should steer clear of those places where thick smoke is emitted, and if they have to go out, then a mask should be worn. It is better to stay indoors with windows shut and during times when the outside atmosphere seems to be smoky in order to promote safety to their lungs."

How To Reduce Asthma Attacks Due To Air Pollution During Diwali

In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Padmini Pamaraju, General Medicine, Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, points out the most common asthma triggers during Diwali, which include smoke from firecrackers, dust from cleaning and decorating activities, artificial colours, and fragrances from scented candles and oils.

To avoid or minimise the impact of these triggers, she therefore recommends:

Staying indoors when firecracker activity is at its peak, usually in the evenings.

Wearing a mask outdoors to filter out airborne pollutants, as particulate masks can reduce inhalation of harmful substances.

Using natural or hypoallergenic colours for rangolis to avoid respiratory irritation.

Choosing unscented candles and avoiding incense sticks to limit exposure to strong scents that may trigger asthma symptoms.

It is important to note that indoor air pollution can also be harmful for health. A 2009 study published in the Proceedings of the American Thoracic Society highlights the significant role of indoor air pollutants like particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, and mouse allergen in worsening asthma symptoms. While outdoor air pollution is well-known to affect asthma, indoor factors often go overlooked, researchers noted, adding that it's crucial to address both indoor and outdoor air quality for asthma management.

To minimise the risk, Dr Lokeshwaran recommends air purifiers and closing the doors and windows when pollutant levels are high. He adds that lighting incense sticks or candles in the room should be avoided at all means possible because of the excessive amount of smoke they emit. Moreover, dusting the room at least once a week with a vacuum cleaner and even wet mopping of surfaces assist in maintaining the dust level.

Also Read: OMHSpotlight: Dr Hansaji Yogendra On The Lesser-Known Benefits Of Yoga, Reveals It Helped Her Overcome Asthma

First-Aid Tips To Manage Asthma Flare-Up

If an asthma attack is triggered by poor air quality, it's essential to act quickly. Here are some first-aid tips to manage asthma symptoms:

Use a rescue inhaler: Ensure that your rescue inhaler is easily accessible. Use it according to your doctor's instructions if symptoms flare up.

Sit upright: This position allows the lungs to expand better and can make breathing easier.

Practise pursed-lip breathing: This technique can slow down breathing and help release trapped air in the lungs, easing shortness of breath.

Seek a calm environment: Move away from any direct source of pollution or smoke and sit in a well-ventilated, smoke-free room if possible.

Contact a healthcare provider: If symptoms persist or worsen despite using a rescue inhaler, seek medical assistance promptly.

Conclusion

Asthma is a condition that requires year-round care and attention. However, during festive seasons, it might need added attention. The surge in firecrackers, smoke, and air pollutants during Diwali may be particularly concerning for asthma patients, as there is a risk of flare-ups and respiratory discomfort. This is when simple yet effective precautions, such as using air purifiers indoors, avoiding outdoor activities when air quality is poor, and keeping inhalers handy, can make a significant difference. By being mindful of these tips, asthma patients can reduce their risk of flare-ups and enjoy the festival in a safer, healthier way.

Disclaimer

All possible measures have been taken to ensure accuracy, reliability, timeliness and authenticity of the information; however Onlymyhealth.Com does not take any liability for the same. Using any information provided by the website is solely at the viewers' discretion. In case of any medical exigencies/ persistent health issues, we advise you to seek a qualified medical practitioner before putting to use any advice/tips given by our team or any third party in form of answers/comments on the above mentioned website.

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