Asthma

What is Asthma?

Asthma is a condition which affects the small airways of the lungs. People with asthma have sensitive, or 'twitchy' airways. When these sensitive airways are exposed to certain asthma triggers the airways can narrow, leading to difficulty in breathing.

Asthma is extremely common. Over 2 million Australians have asthma and the trend is doubling every 15 years.¹

Asthma tends to run in families. It is also associated with other conditions such as eczema, hayfever and allergies.

Causes of Asthma

The narrowing of the airways is caused by inflammation and swelling of the lining of the airways, the tightening of the muscles around the airways and the production of excess mucus. The result is a reduction of the flow of air in and out of the lungs.

Some common triggers are:

• Colds
• Changes in the weather
• Cigarette smoke
• Dust and dust mites
• Pollen
• Some animals

Wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath are the most common asthma symptoms.

There is currently no cure for asthma, but it can be managed. People with good asthma management can lead full and productive lives.

Asthma Treatment with Asthma Medications

Asthma can be well controlled with the appropriate medication in almost all children. With treatment and proper management, almost everyone with asthma can lead active lives. The medicines work by either opening the narrow airways or preventing them from narrowing in the first place.

The two common types of asthma treatment are:

• Relievers - quick acting and used during an attack to open the airways (such as Bricanyl, Respolin and Ventolin).
• Preventers - slow acting and used to prevent an attack from occurring (such as Becotide, Intal and Pulmicort).

Asthma Management

Asthma and Exercise

Contrary to popular belief, moderate exercise is very beneficial for asthmatics. It helps strengthen the lungs and increase blood flow and oxygen to the body. With good asthma management, swimming, walking, cycling and team sports are all possible, and are great ways to keep active and healthy… in fact many top Olympic athletes have asthma! Talk to your doctor first before starting any exercise program.

Asthma and Diet

Studies suggest that a diet high in Omega 3 marine fatty acids (fish oil) may be associated with reduced asthma risk in children.² The Omega 3’s in fish oil have the unique effect of blocking the “inflammatory messengers” which contribute to the tightening of the airways.

There is also evidence that reducing dietary salt and omega-6 fatty acids, and increasing antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce the severity of exercise-induced asthma.³

As a rule, a healthy diet is important to help maintain an asthmatic’s general health and wellbeing.

Some suggestions include:

• Increase antioxidants in the diet (fresh green leafy vegetables, fruits or through herbal/mineral supplements such as selenium or Green Tea)
• Increase Omega-3 consumption by eating more fatty fish, or taking a fish oil supplement
• Reduce salt and Omega-6 fatty acids (found in vegetable oils and many processed foods)
• Some food colourings, preservatives and chemical additives can cause attacks in sensitive individuals. Limit foods with these additives and consume fresh organic foods where possible.