What causes the asthma symptoms to worsen?

Question

Hello doctor,

My asthma symptoms seem to be getting worse despite following my treatment plan. I am using my prescribed controller inhaler every morning and night, but I still experience frequent coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness. Recently, I had to visit the emergency room because my regular inhaler was not helping during a severe episode. I have also noticed that my symptoms worsen with weather changes and during allergy season.

Is this a sign that my current treatment plan needs adjustment?
What other options should I consider?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Asthma signs and symptoms are more frequent and bothersome. There is increasing difficulty breathing, as measured with a device used to check how well your lungs are working (peak flow meter).

There is a need to use a quick-relief inhaler more often.

For some people, asthma signs and symptoms flare up in certain situations:

Exercise-induced asthma, which may be worse when the air is cold and dry.
Occupational asthma is triggered by workplace irritants such as chemical fumes, gases, or dust.
Allergy-induced asthma is triggered by airborne substances, such as pollen, mold spores, cockroach waste, or particles of skin and dried saliva shed by pets (pet dander).

Exposure to various irritants and substances that trigger allergies (allergens) can trigger signs and symptoms of asthma. Asthma triggers are different from person to person and can include:

Airborne allergens, such as pollen, dust mites, mold spores, pet dander, or particles of cockroach waste.
Respiratory infections, such as the common cold.
Physical activity.
Cold air.
Air pollutants and irritants, such as smoke.
Certain medications, including beta blockers, Aspirin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and Naproxen sodium (Aleve).
Strong emotions and stress.
Sulfites and preservatives are added to some types of foods and beverages, including shrimp, dried fruit, processed potatoes, beer, and wine.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition in which stomach acids back up into your throat.

While there is no way to prevent asthma, you and your doctor can design a step-by-step plan for living with your condition and preventing asthma attacks.

Follow your asthma action plan. With your doctor and health care team, write a detailed plan for taking medications and managing an asthma attack. Then be sure to follow your plan.

Asthma is an ongoing condition that needs regular monitoring and treatment. Taking control of your treatment can make you feel more in control of your life.

Get vaccinated for influenza and pneumonia. Staying current with vaccinations can prevent flu and pneumonia from triggering asthma flare-ups.
Identify and avoid asthma triggers. Several outdoor allergens and irritants, ranging from pollen and mold to cold air and air pollution, can trigger asthma attacks. Find out what causes or worsens your asthma, and take steps to avoid those triggers.
Monitor your breathing. You may learn to recognize warning signs of an impending attack, such as slight coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath.

But because your lung function may decrease before you notice any signs or symptoms, regularly measure and record your peak airflow with a home peak flow meter. A peak flow meter measures how hard you can breathe out. Your doctor can show you how to monitor your peak flow at home.

Identify and treat attacks early. If you act quickly, you are less likely to have a severe attack. You also will not need as much medication to control your symptoms.

When your peak flow measurements decrease and alert you to an oncoming attack, take your medication as instructed. Also, immediately stop any activity that may have triggered the attack. If your symptoms do not improve, get medical help as directed in your action plan.

Take your medication as prescribed. Do not change your medications without first talking to your doctor, even if your asthma seems to be improving. It is a good idea to bring your medications with you to each doctor's visit. Your doctor can make sure you are using your medications correctly and taking the right dose.

Pay attention to increasing quick-relief inhaler use. If you find yourself relying on your quick-relief inhaler, such as Albuterol (bronchodilators), your asthma is not under control. See your doctor about adjusting your treatment.

Kindly consult a physician, discuss with them, and start taking the medications with their consent.

I hope this helps.

Thank you, and take care.

Regards.