Asthma – Subtypes, Symptoms, and Management Options

Asthma – Subtypes, Symptoms, and Management Options

Asthma is classified as a chronic respiratory disease that has no cure yet and predominantly affects lung function. Common symptoms include shortness of breath, wheezing, tightness in the chest, and a persistent cough that worsens during the day or at night. It is possible to manage the condition and prevent symptoms from worsening with prescriptions, healthy preventive measures, nutrition, and lifestyle changes. Following is an overview of three subtypes of asthma, their symptoms, and treatments explained.

Eosinophilic Asthma (EA)
Eosinophils are specific white blood cells found in the immune system that are mainly responsible for fighting and warding off external infections that affect the human body. Adults who develop chronic respiratory disorders may also be at risk of developing this subtype. EA happens when the count of eosinophils in the body is elevated, leading to inflammation and swelling of the airways. These symptoms mainly increase one’s breathing difficulties. The higher the eosinophils count in the bloodstream, the more severe will be the symptoms experienced among adults of varying ages.

Since it is a less common subtype, doctors must run several diagnostics to understand changes in the immune and metabolic responses of the body. Most asthma symptoms in similar subtypes tend to overlap, making it difficult to narrow down a specific course of treatment. If left unchecked, EA can severely impact the quality of life. The condition also increases the risk of chronic sinus, ear infections, or the development of nasal polyps.

Eosinophilic asthma treatment
Subtypes need a more focused strategy for treatment execution by combining prescriptions and therapies to ease breathing difficulties.

  • Oral formulas and inhalers
    Corticosteroids are the first suggested treatment option for managing the symptoms. These are available in oral form and have varying dosage levels. But not everyone responds well to steroid treatments. So doctors also recommend the use of fast-acting inhalers to counter inflammation and open up the airways. Inhalers, however, only provide immediate relief and must be used continually at fixed intervals or when the symptoms flare up.
  • Modifiers and biological therapies
    Certain leukotriene modifiers counter the inflammatory response of eosinophils and are suggested for several types of asthma treatment. Alternatively, pulmonary practitioners also suggest the use of biologics that are delivered intravenously to counter the inflammation and swelling of airways. Note that this form of treatment can only be done inpatient at the clinic.

Exercise Induced Bronchoconstriction (EIB)
Alternatively referred to as Exercise Induced Asthma, this unusual subtype only triggers severe symptoms when those affected perform any physical activity or exercise. The symptoms develop a few minutes after the physical activity has begun and can last well over 15 minutes in some cases, even after one stops working out.

Triggers, risk factors, and symptoms
There are many known triggers of EIB, including airborne and contact irritants in the surroundings. Specific to sports, these triggers could be the chlorine in water, outdoor pollution with athletic activities, extremely harsh snow weather conditions, or even internal temperature changes while performing hot yoga.

Known symptoms of EIB
Common symptoms that develop with exercise include wheezing, shortness of breath, a decrease in endurance, a feeling of tightness in the chest, a persistent cough, sore throat, and even an upset stomach. The severity of symptoms will vary depending on the extent of activity. Since it is a type of allergic asthma, EIB will also require a combination treatment plan to manage and overcome mild to moderate discomforts.

Treating EIB
Severe asthma treatment options combine prescription and effective lifestyle changes to manage and prevent flare-ups in the long term.

  • Prescriptions
    Doctors often suggest a combination of inhaled beta-2 antagonists (both short-term and long-term), inhaled corticosteroids, leukotriene receptor inhibitors, and long-term asthma control preventive measures for severe bouts of inflammation.
  • Lifestyle changes
    Doctors mainly advise athletes to warm up with gentle exercise to allow the respiratory system to adapt and prevent breathlessness. In chilly weather, it is advisable to cover up the nose and ears to prevent dry air from triggering symptoms. Making subtle changes to daily exercise routines also allows the body to adapt to breathing intensity. It is also recommended to consult an allergist and understand the best severe asthma treatment options by identifying the source and type of allergy.

Pediatric asthma
Pediatric asthma is one of the severe known subtypes affecting young children with chronic inflammation of the airways. It is estimated that nearly 8.4% of children in the country suffer from some form of pediatric asthma. The condition can be allergic, virus induced, or exercise induced, diagnosed from the varied symptoms and discomforts that develop over time.

Children between the ages of 5 and 17  are at an elevated risk of developing this chronic respiratory disorder, especially with a family history of respiratory diseases. Food allergies, environmental allergens, and even an unbalanced body mass index can are risk factors associated with the condition.

Asthma symptoms in children
Daytime or nighttime cough coupled with chest tightness, wheezing during breathing, or severe shortness of breath that increases with activity are all common symptoms that flare up with varying intensities.

Diagnosis and treatment
Pediatric asthma is tricky to diagnose as many symptoms overlap with common respiratory conditions. Doctors perform a range of diagnostic tests to confirm the symptoms. These include spirometry (to check lung function), peak flow monitoring (to measure lung capacity), and chest X-rays (to identify any abnormality in lung tissue). Doctors also conduct allergy tests to identify common allergens that trigger flare-ups.

Treatments for this subtype of asthma are similar to what is recommended for adults. The inflammation and swelling can be managed with a combination of corticosteroids, bronchodilators, inhalers, anti-leukotrienes, biologics, and immunotherapy, depending on the severity of the symptoms. Doctors who specialize in pulmonary medicine are the ideal practitioners to advise on the best course of treatment to improve quality of life.

Note that these subtypes, while unusual in characteristics, exhibit the most common symptoms observed among respiratory disorders. So, it is necessary to get immediate attention for triggered chronic discomforts. If the child or adult is not responding to traditional asthma treatment options, specialized care is suggested for uncontrolled asthma subtypes to manage the overall outlook.

Previous Read

Known Signs of Hemophilia and Anemia

Bleeding disorders refer to a group of conditions like hemophilia or anemia that interfere with normal blood functions in the body. Hemophilia affects the ability of the blood cells to clot naturally, while anemia lowers hemoglobin count in the red blood cells. These conditions exhibit a unique set of symptoms that can be identified. Early diagnosis helps doctors form a viable healthcare plan. So, it pays to know and identify the following symptoms. Hemophilia and Anemia: Understanding the difference Both conditions are common bleeding disorders. However, anemia & hemophilia signs are distinctly different from each other when it comes to the disease progression. The latter is a genetic disorder that affects the red blood cell’s ability to clot and close wounds. Certain clotting factors in the blood bind with the red blood cells to prevent uncontrolled bleeding. Anemia is a condition where the body lacks sufficient healthy red blood cells in the first place. Also, a low hemoglobin count affects the red blood cell’s ability to carry oxygen to vital organs and extremities via the circulatory system. Genetic mutation triggers most known types of hemophilia, while certain nutritional deficiencies in the body trigger common forms of anemia. Symptoms of hemophilia The absence of essential clotting factors in the blood can trigger a variety of noticeable and unusual symptoms. Uncontrolled bleeding Bleeding is one of the primary symptoms of hemophilia. It can happen under the skin or in the joints. As the red blood cells are unable to bind and clot, this pool of blood can trigger swelling, pain, and tightness in the joints. This symptom is most commonly noticeable in the knees, elbows, and ankles. Blood collecting under the skin can lead to buildups under the muscle and soft tissue to cause more painful bruising. This symptom is called hematoma in medical terminology. Frequent nosebleeds When the bleeding is triggered externally, it can result in frequent nosebleeds that can be difficult to stop. Note that external environmental factors and physical injuries generally cause nosebleeds. So, any unexplained bleeding could indicate a developing condition. Bleeding caused due to cuts, bruises, and vaccinations Lack of essential clotting factor VIII can trigger bleeding from the lightest of impacts, cuts, bruises, or even after losing a tooth. Some people experience sudden bleeding after taking a vaccination. This could be the body’s reaction to producing antibodies, but the strain could be too much to bear, resulting in bleeding from the extremities. Blood in urine or stool Excess blood in the urine or stool is a clear sign of disease progression. The urine and stools appear dark red or even blackish due to the presence of red blood cells mixed with the excreta. Immediate medical assistance is advisable for visual symptoms. Bleeding in infants Complicated pregnancies can be physically taxing for both the mother and the child leading to possible symptoms of hemophilia at birth. But in some rare cases, infants may experience internal bleeding in the head. Symptoms of anemia The most common types of anemia, including iron deficiency anemia and vitamin deficiency anemia, develop due to the lack of nutrients in the body. Therefore, anemia exhibits more physically taxing symptoms as the condition worsens. Tiredness Increased fatigue and weakness for no apparent reason is one of the main indicators of nutritional deficiencies. An unexplained decrease in overall stamina with no physical exertion or any activity during the day could mean low iron in the blood. Without iron, the body cannot produce enough red blood cells. And low hemoglobin means not enough oxygen is being circulated around vital organs in the body, thus resulting in fatigue induced by low energy levels. Respiratory symptoms Experiencing shortness of breath, chest pains, and even noticing an irregular heartbeat could indicate a possible anemic condition. An iron deficiency lowers hemoglobin count, and this means not enough oxygen is being circulated by the blood. Low hemoglobin affects the breathing rate as the body struggles to extract more oxygen resulting in shortness of breath. The heart must also put in extra efforts to pump the low hemoglobin blood forcefully, thus resulting in irregular heartbeats. Doctors refer to this condition as heart palpitations. These symptoms can also induce chest pains due to the sheer stress being put on the organ. Pale skin and damaged hair Skin and hair symptoms are visible indicators of a developing anemia condition. An iron deficiency results in low red blood cell production and indirectly affects the shade of the skin. Pale skin is noticeably visible around the face, gums, lower lips, lower eyelids, and even on the nails. This symptom is more visually obvious among people who flaunt a lighter skin tone. Also, hair thinning, hair fall, and a damaged scalp is a clear sign of iron deficiency. Treatment options Note that anemia & hemophilia signs never overlap. Once the primary indicators are confirmed, doctors quickly suggest blood tests to identify the leading causes or triggers. Knowing the differences can help with prompt diagnosis even though both the conditions are bleeding disorders. It is even possible to recover from common forms of anemia within 2 to 3 months. Hemophilia is a more serious bleeding disorder that is treated by introducing the missing clotting factors. Doctors also suggest prescriptions that help stimulate the body to release more clotting factors. However, a transfusion offers more promising results for moderate to severe progression. Effective preventive measures and home remedies can help lower the risk of bleeding. These conditions cannot be completely cured. But it is possible to improve the quality of life by incorporating healthy lifestyle habits. Prescriptions and treatments only help slow down the disease progression.

Next Read

Understanding Eczema – Symptoms, Causes, Types, and More

Being the body's outermost layer, the skin is exposed to external factors and is highly sensitive. Eczema is a skin condition involving skin inflammation, causing the development of patches, itchiness, roughness, and scales. Typically, patients with eczema experience intermittent spells of relapse. The disease is common among children and adults and requires lifestyle changes alongside conventional treatment. This article discusses eczema’s types, causes, symptoms, and treatment options and offers some lifestyle tips: Types of Eczema Atopic dermatitis Atopic dermatitis (AD) is the most prevalent type of eczema and typically occurs in phases over the years. This condition often develops in childhood, involving rashes, itchiness, and skin sores. Individuals with AD may also experience hay fever and asthma. Contact dermatitis This eczema results from an allergic reaction to an irritant, such as cosmetics, jewelry, and soaps. Although contact eczema lasts longer than other eczema types, its symptoms - including rashes, scaly skin, hyperpigmentation, skin dryness, and inflammation - can be harrowing. Patients with contact dermatitis experience instant relief upon ceasing to use the irritant. Stasis dermatitis Stasis dermatitis involves eczema on the lower legs, particularly the ankles, due to poor blood circulation. Some causes of stasis dermatitis include varicose veins, hypertension, and lack of physical activity. Individuals with this type of eczema undergo symptoms like swelling of the legs and difficulties with walking. Neurodermatitis Neurodermatitis is characterized by itchy skin and rashes on specific areas of the body. Several individuals with this condition report experiencing particularly severe itching in these body parts at night or while resting. High-stress levels and anxiety can also trigger and worsen the itchiness. Nummular eczema Nummular eczema or discoid dermatitis involves circular patches that may bleed and itch, causing discoloration. It may be triggered by contact dermatitis or caused by insect bites, burns, injuries, etc. Seborrheic dermatitis This type of dermatitis often involves flaky and itchy skin on the scalp. However, it can sometimes affect other parts of the face, such as the eyelids, ears, and nose; rarely, it also occurs on the chest, back, armpits, and groin. It can also be accompanied by nummular eczema and entails symptoms like dark-brown rashes, severe itchiness, and white or yellow scales. What causes eczema? Genetic predisposition Several studies have associated genetic mutations to the gene SPINK5 as a cause of eczema. Mutations to the FLG gene - responsible for the production of a protein called filaggrin, which strengthens skin cells and protects the skin against allergens - are also linked with the onset of this condition. Irritants Irritants like detergents, cosmetics, jewelry, and certain fabric types can also trigger eczema. In such cases, steering clear of the irritant can instantly cure it. Aging Collagen formation and epidermal cell replacement reduce with age, causing wrinkles and increasing one’s susceptibility to skin issues, including eczema. Stress Elevated stress levels are associated with increased cortisol secretion, which can cause oily skin and trigger eczema. Extreme temperatures Extremely hot or cold temperatures can also trigger or worsen eczema. Excessive air moisture during winters and skin discomfort during summers are often significant factors contributing to the condition. Common symptoms Itching Itchiness is one of the most common eczema symptoms, typically occurring in rashes or scales. Scratching the affected area can exacerbate the situation. Skin dryness and inflammation A lack of moisture causes dry skin among patients with eczema. The condition also causes skin inflammation, resulting from the skin’s resistance to factors triggering eczema. Rashes Gray, brown, pink, or black rashes may appear on the skin due to eczema. These rashes may appear on different body parts, such as elbows, the back of the knee, the neck, and the chest. These are often accompanied by scaly patches. Skin thickening The area affected by eczema often becomes thicker with time and worsens with scratching. The thickness of the skin surface is the body’s mechanism to protect itself from the condition. Hayfever and asthma Eczema, particularly atopic dermatitis, is often accompanied by hay fever and asthma. Some studies have demonstrated the existence of a common genetic origin among these conditions, causing their coexistence. Skin bleeding Skin inflammation during eczema results in the dilation of blood vessels, causing the oozing of serum and, sometimes, blood. Dry, flaky skin can trigger bleeding in some severe eczema cases. Treatment options Moisturizers Lack of skin moisture is one of the leading symptoms of eczema. Thus, it is important to incorporate good moisturizers in your eczema skin-care routine. OTC creams and moisturizers containing glycerin, aloe vera, petrolatum, vitamin E, oat, niacinamide, etc., are ideal. Ointments Mild ointments rich in mineral oil or petroleum jelly (such as Vaseline) are highly effective in soothing eczema-affected skin. Bleach baths Research has demonstrated that bathing in mildly bleached water can provide considerable relief from eczema. Add a teaspoon of bleach per gallon of water and soak your body in this solution for 5-10 minutes. Apply a moisturizer immediately after bathing. Lifestyle tips Watch your food intake One should consume nutritious anti-inflammatory foods like fatty fish, yogurt, and sauerkraut, flavonoid-rich foods like tomatoes and bell peppers, green vegetables like kale and spinach, and fruits like apples and blueberries. Some patients with eczema are allergic to nickel. Avoid consuming nickel-rich foods like cashews, cocoa, and soy in such cases. It is also important to avoid processed meats, refined grains, and deep-fried foods. Several online resources provide eczema-friendly recipes using anti-inflammatory ingredients. Wear comfortable clothing Tight clothing and rough fabric can irritate the skin, worsening eczema. Wearing light, skin-friendly clothing made of cotton, wool, or linen can help avoid discomfort. Avoid hot showers Hot showers and baths can irritate the skin and increase the severity of eczema symptoms. The best bet is to have short baths with lukewarm water. Use the right soap Using the right soap goes a long way in regulating eczema symptoms. It is advisable to use fragrance-free, preservative-free products and avoid antibacterial soaps as they reduce skin moisture considerably.

Our Blogs

Invisible Braces – Benefits, Costs, and Top Brands

Invisible Braces – Benefits, Costs, and Top Brands

Braces are the go-to option most people choose for straightening teeth and jaws. This treatment provides aesthetic benefits, helps improve oral health, and relieves pressure from the joints. Traditionally, the base material used to be metal, but the latest developments in dental technology have given us a new option. This article gives you in-depth details about what makes invisible braces so popular, how much these products cost, and the best brands. What are invisible braces? Invisible braces, commonly known as clear aligners, are transparent dental trays that are used to correct your bite. These trays are usually worn for 20 to 22 hours a day. As the teeth shift, you have to make a new invisible tray every one or two weeks. Invisible braces are quite similar to retainers, but the former is used the slowly align your teeth while the latter keeps your teeth in place. Benefits The biggest benefit of invisible braces that’s quite evident at first sight is the fact that they are transparent. Factors like the lack of wires, bands, and brackets make these braces suitable for people of all ages, especially adults. Unlike the metal and ceramic counterparts, these braces can be removed at any time, which makes them easy to clean as well.
Read More
Overactive Bladder – Common Causes and Management Techniques

Overactive Bladder – Common Causes and Management Techniques

Those suffering from an overactive bladder experience an increased urge to urinate. Such an uncontrollable need significantly compromises one’s quality of life. Issues that arise from this condition may lead the patient to compromise or rearrange their daily routine around their diagnosis. One may even suffer from bladder-related symptoms due to complications from other diseases like diabetes. This article highlights the significant causes as well as management techniques of an overactive bladder in patients: Causes Overactive bladder can result from various reasons such as unhealthy lifestyle choices, age, and underlying health conditions. Here are some of the common causes that lead to the development of this urological condition:  Poor pelvic muscle strength Pelvic muscles provide the lower abdomen with the necessary support. As a person ages, their muscles tend to lose strength. Weak muscles are, thus, a common causative factor that leads to the development of an overactive bladder. Factors like pregnancy and childbirth are also known to weaken the pelvic floor muscles.    Nerve damage This cause of an overactive bladder is quite common as the nerves can sustain damage from conditions like multiple sclerosis and herniated discs. This damage affects the signal transfer among the brain and other body parts, including the bladder.
Read More
Top 9 Life Alert System Providers for Seniors

Top 9 Life Alert System Providers for Seniors

A medical alert system consists of life-saving devices that instantly connect the user with emergency help with the push of a button. Such equipment helps seniors live independently and offers peace of mind to their loved ones and caregivers. A good-quality life alert system for seniors has several useful medical features like fall detection, GPS tracking, and professional monitoring. In this article, we’ve listed the best medical alert systems for seniors out there today. Medical Guardian Founded in 2005, Medical Guardian is known for designing best-in-class life alert devices and systems. Depending on the lifestyle of a senior individual, they can choose between different types of On-The-Go and In-House systems. Almost every Medical Guardian life alert system for seniors features its state-of-the-art fall detection technology, along with other essential features like GPS location tracking, extra neck/wrist buttons, and water resistance. This company’s medical alert products have the longest battery life (up to 168 hours) and furthest signal range (up to 1300 feet) compared to any other product on the market. Medical Guardian also has a highly reliable monitoring center that operates 24/7. Bay Alarm Medical With over 70 years of experience in life alert devices, Bay Alarm Medical is one of the most trusted providers in the country.
Read More
Dental Implants – Its Types and Associated Costs

Dental Implants – Its Types and Associated Costs

The ability of dentures or implants to mimic natural teeth is so impressive that it has changed millions of lives worldwide. These prosthetics are used when natural teeth have significant issues. With a little maintenance, they can be an efficient and long-lasting solution. So, if you are planning to get them yourself, the following article can help you know the factors to consider and the prices of dental implants and dentures. How do dental implants work? Before discussing dental implant prices, it is essential to understand how they work. Dental implants consist of three different pieces that serve distinct functions, as given below: Implant post Also known as the fixture, this small, cylindrical screw acts as an artificial root for the tooth. Abutment This piece connects the implant post and the crown. There are various types of abutments depending on the prosthetic type requiring support. Crown The final piece of the entire prosthetic, the crown rests on the top of the abutment. It can be made from porcelain, metal, resin, or ceramics. Porcelain or ceramic crowns look the most natural. Costs of dental implants Depending on one’s needs, there are four types of dental implants. Given below are average costs for the same:
Read More
Dental Procedures That Don’t Need Braces for Teeth Alignment

Dental Procedures That Don’t Need Braces for Teeth Alignment

If your teeth alignment has always made you conscious of your smile, you need to address the issue. Crowded or crooked teeth and crossbites can majorly affect your facial profile and the way you chew your food. The insecurity and complications of a crossbite only grow with age. If you’re contemplating ways to align your teeth, and you want to achieve that without braces, you’ve come to the right place.  This article discusses teeth alignment options that are possible without prominent braces. Invisalign It is one of the most popular ways of teeth alignment without braces. The treatment involves using a set of clear retainer trays made to fit the moving teeth. You will be given a set of new retainer trays every two weeks to make the desired changes. They can be removed when eating, but one needs to ensure they have them on for at least 22 hours in a day. The treatment tenure depends on the severity of the case and takes approximately around 12 to 24 months to align teeth. Advantages They are invisible, so you won’t have to avoid social gatherings or feel awkward They are removable, which makes cleaning the trays and teeth easy  These can be removed when having a meal, which means fewer restrictions when eating Disadvantages Invisalign is a more expensive option  The flexibility of removing trays can elongate the treatment if not worn for prescribed hours  Some may develop a lisp or speak awkwardly with trays Inman Aligner This is another efficient way of teeth alignment without braces.
Read More
Signs and Remedies of Pulmonary Fibrosis

Signs and Remedies of Pulmonary Fibrosis

Pulmonary fibrosis is a severe lung disease that occurs when the lung tissue is damaged and scarred. The scarring leads to thickened, stiff tissues and makes it difficult for the lungs to work efficiently. Several factors may cause pulmonary fibrosis. However, doctors cannot assess what triggers the condition. While the damage to the lungs is irreversible, there are several remedies that can help. So here are the signs of pulmonary fibrosis and some remedies. The signs of pulmonary fibrosis Before getting into the remedies of the condition, let’s learn about the signs of pulmonary fibrosis. Doing so can ensure proper diagnoses and care at the earliest. The first sign of pulmonary fibrosis is getting out of breath. The symptom occurs when the person exerts themselves through physical exercise. When the condition progresses, the affected individual may find it hard to breathe even with little to no physical activity. Older people who experience shortness of breath often confuse the condition as a sign of aging, failing to diagnose the disease early. Other signs of pulmonary fibrosis include: A dry cough. The sudden loss of weight. Fatigue. Pain in the muscles and joints. Clubbing, a condition that results in the widening and rounding at the tips of the fingers or toes.
Read More