Asthma & Pregnancy

The major concern of a pregnant woman with asthma is the effect her condition of asthma and its medications can have on her baby. A wide range of medications are used for the treatment of asthma. The dosage and the administration of the medication depend upon the severity of the condition of the patient. The amount of data available shows that most of the asthma medications are safe in pregnancy and do not have any adverse effect on the baby.

Controlling your asthma, it is very important to adhere to the medication plan and other preventive measures to effectively control and avoid any episodes of asthma. It is a known fact that the effect of an uncontrolled asthma is more dangerous to the baby than the medications used for the control of the same. Women with controlled asthma has no complications in pregnancy, but an uncontrolled asthma can have serious maternal and foetal complications like premature birth, low birth weight and changes in maternal blood pressure.

Asthma & Breastfeeding, though most of the medications enter breast milk, but it does not pose a threat to the new born as the concentration of these medications is very low in breast milk. But it is still better to take the medications after nursing the baby or three to four hours before breastfeeding.

Asthma & Child

Asthma is one of the most chronic diseases of childhood. Asthma accounts for the most schooldays lost in children worldwide. Childhood asthma is a disorder with genetic and a strong allergic connection. The signs and symptoms associated with childhood asthma are wheezing, cough and respiratory infections. Children who suffer from frequent coughing and respiratory infections like bronchitis should be examined by a medical professional for condition of asthma. Children who cough after running and crying also should be subjected to examination for asthma.

In some cases the usual symptoms of asthma are not noticeable, but still there is an obstruction of the airways, limiting the child’s physical activity. This situation is known as hidden asthma. If the condition is left untreated, it may lead to frequent respiratory illness.

Managing children with asthma is more of a psychological and emotional issue. It is important that in case of an episode of asthma, the anxiety and panic is controlled. The parents should take care that they stay calm and encourage the child to relax and breathe easily and slowly. This should be followed by appropriate medications in consultation with a medical professional.

Managing Asthma

Managing Your Asthma

• The first step is to identify and avoid exposure to the trigger factors
• Keep the house free of dust, mites, moulds and pets.
• Take the medications as prescribed
• Stop smoking and avoid passive smoking too.
• Take precautions as weather changes.
• Initiate and continue breathing exercises
• Keep consulting your medical professional regularly