Causes, symptoms, and diagnosis of eosinophilic asthma

Causes, symptoms, and diagnosis of eosinophilic asthma

Asthma is a common condition, with over 25 million people in the country dealing with a form of the disease. About 15% of them may experience severe asthma symptoms that are challenging to manage with standard treatments. Eosinophilic asthma is one of the top causes of severe asthma. This type is associated with high levels of white blood cells called eosinophils. Here is what one should know about the condition: Causes Eosinophilic asthma develops due to an elevated number of eosinophils, which are white blood cells that help the immune system fight infections. It is unclear what actually causes a surge in the eosinophil count. Some forms of asthma are triggered by allergic responses to common allergens like pet dander, mold, mildew, and pollen. However, this does not seem to cause eosinophilic asthma, as many people with the condition do not have any allergies. Experts believe that such an eosinophilic disorder can either develop both on its own as a primary disorder or as a reaction to another condition as a secondary disorder. Further, a spike in eosinophils can develop when the body is fighting against a parasitic infection. Nevertheless, more research is required to understand the exact causes. Symptoms Most symptoms associated with eosinophilic asthma are the same as those of other forms of asthma.
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A brief overview of asthma inhalers

A brief overview of asthma inhalers

Asthma inhalers help manage asthma symptoms, and choosing the right one is imperative. These medical devices convert the liquid prescription into a fine mist that must be inhaled into the lungs. One must learn how to use inhalers effectively for quick relief and to help manage asthma efficiently. Training from a doctor or health care provider to learn how to use the device correctly is recommended. Read on to learn about the types and benefits of asthma inhalers. Types of asthma inhalers Broadly, there are three types of asthma inhalers . These include: Metered-dose inhalers Often referred to as puffers, the metered-dose inhalers contain the prescription treatment in a handheld container with a mouthpiece. Upon pressing the canister, a propellant (that enables the prescription to come out of the canister) helps send a treatment puff out of the mouthpiece. Following the instructions, the patient must inhale this puff through the mouth to allow the prescription treatment to reach the lungs. These inhalers deliver one dose per puff from a canister containing multiple doses Dry powder inhalers These asthma inhalers store the prescription treatment in powder form inside the containers or capsules that one activates when one uses the inhaler. Unlike metered-dose inhalers, dry powder inhalers have no propellant pushing the treatment dosage out.
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Asthma cough – Symptoms and management options

Asthma cough – Symptoms and management options

Coughing eliminates bacteria and foreign particles and prevents possible infections. It is one of the body’s natural defense mechanisms. Primarily, there are two kinds of coughs: productive and non-productive. In the former, one will see noticeable phlegm and mucus expelled from the body. It helps the lungs eliminate harmful substances. However, in most asthma cases, the cough is non-productive and dry. Usually, non-productive asthma coughing responds to an irritant that enables the bronchial tubes to constrict or spasm. This article talks about asthma symptoms and treatment options. Here’s what one needs to know: Asthma symptoms Before understanding asthma treatments, one should know and learn to recognize its symptoms. Coughing is usually the first and most common asthma symptom. For some people, coughing is the only noticeable sign. But to understand whether the cough is due to asthma, one must assess the other related symptoms. Some common symptoms that can confirm the presence of asthma coughing are as follows: Shortness of breath Chest tightness Prolonged infections and illnesses Problems exercising Waking up from the night coughing Fatigue Wheezing With asthma, coughing can be worrisome, especially during the night. It may make it challenging to get proper sleep and demand special treatment.
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