Bronchial asthma - symptoms, signs in adults, diagnosis, treatment and prevention. An attack during bronchial asthma How an attack of bronchial asthma develops

Asthma is a very serious disease of immuno-allergic origin, which develops as a result of non-infectious inflammation in the respiratory system (the so-called “bronchial tree”). Bronchial asthma is characterized by a chronic progressive course with periodic attacks, during which bronchial obstruction and suffocation develop.

Next, we will talk in detail about bronchial asthma, the first signs of an attack, what is the main cause of development and what symptoms are typical for adults, as well as effective methods of treating the disease today.

What is bronchial asthma?

Bronchial asthma is a common disease that occurs in people of any age and social group. The most susceptible to the disease are children, who subsequently “outgrow” the problem (about half of the sick people). In recent years, there has been a steady increase in incidence throughout the world, which is why there are a huge number of programs, both global and national, to combat asthma.

Attacks of suffocation are observed with varying frequency, but even in the remission stage, the inflammatory process in the respiratory tract persists. The following components are at the heart of the disturbance of air flow in bronchial asthma:

• obstruction of the airways due to spasms of the smooth muscles of the bronchi or due to swelling of their mucous membrane.
• blockage of the bronchi with the secretion of the submucosal glands of the respiratory tract due to their hyperfunction.
• replacement of bronchial muscle tissue with connective tissue during a long course of the disease, which causes sclerotic changes in the bronchial wall.

In patients with asthma, their ability to work is reduced and disability often occurs, because the chronic inflammatory process creates sensitivity to allergens, various chemical irritants, smoke, dust, etc. This causes swelling and bronchospasm, since at the time of irritation there is an increased production of bronchial mucus.

Causes

The development of the disease can be triggered by various external factors:

• genetic predisposition. Cases of hereditary vulnerability to asthma are not uncommon. Sometimes the disease is diagnosed in representatives of each generation. If the parents are sick, the chance of avoiding pathology in the child is no more than 25%;
• influence of the professional environment. Damage to the respiratory tract from harmful fumes, gases and dust is one of the most common causes of asthma;
• various detergents, including cleaning aerosols, contain substances that provoke asthma in adults; About 18% of new cases are associated with the use of these drugs.

The following irritants most often cause an attack:

• allergens, for example, pet hair, food, dust, plants;
• infections of a viral or bacterial type -,;
• medications - quite often, ordinary aspirin can cause a severe asthma attack, as well as anti-inflammatory drugs containing non-steroids;
• external negative influences - exhaust gases, perfume, cigarette smoke;
• stress;
• physical activity, which is most likely to worsen if the patient plays sports in a cold room.

Factors that cause an asthma attack:

• increased reactivity of the smooth muscle elements of the walls of the bronchial tree, leading to spasm with any irritation;
• exogenous factors that cause a massive release of mediators of allergy and inflammation, but do not lead to a general allergic reaction;
• swelling of the bronchial mucosa, worsening airway patency;
• insufficient formation of mucous bronchial secretions (cough in asthma is usually unproductive);
• predominant damage to small-diameter bronchi;
• changes in lung tissue caused by hypoventilation.

As a result of the action of factors, some changes occur in the bronchi:

• Spasm of the muscular layer of the bronchi (smooth muscles)
• Swelling, redness are signs of inflammation.
• Infiltration by cellular elements and filling the lumen of the bronchi with secretion, which over time completely clogs the bronchus.

Classification

Based on the nature of the reasons for which bronchial asthma appeared, infectious and non-infectious allergic forms are distinguished.

1. The first implies that the disease developed as a complication of other respiratory tract ailments that are infectious in nature. Most often, acute pharyngitis can lead to similar negative consequences. Two out of three cases of the disease fall into this category.
2. The second form is of a purely allergic nature, when bronchial asthma turns out to be the body’s reaction to standard irritants for allergies: pollen, dust, dandruff, medications, chemicals and others.

The diagnosis of a patient with bronchial asthma includes all of the above characteristics. For example, “Bronchial asthma of non-allergic origin, intermittent, controlled, in the stage of stable remission.”

First signs of asthma

Early warning signs should include the following:

• Allergic pathologies in close relatives
• Deterioration of health in the warm, spring-summer period
• Cough, nasal congestion and wheezing in the chest, which occur in the summer, worsen in dry weather and go away in rainy weather (“settling” of most allergens on the street)
• Skin rashes, itching, periodic swelling of the eyelids and lips
• Weakness, lethargy, occurring immediately after physical or emotional stress
• Disappearance of the above symptoms during a temporary change of residence and resumption after return

If an adult notices in himself above symptoms, he needs to seek medical help from an allergist or pulmonologist, who will help to understand the cause of the ailment.

Severity

Depending on the severity of symptoms, bronchial asthma can manifest itself in the following ways:

1. Intermittent mild form of bronchial asthma. Manifestations of the disease occur less than once a week, night attacks can occur maximum twice a month and even less frequently. Exacerbations in manifestations are short-term in nature. Indicators for PEF (peak expiratory flow) exceed the age norm of 80%, fluctuations in this criterion per day are less than 20%.
2. Persistent mild form of bronchial asthma. Symptoms of the disease appear once a week or more, but at the same time less than once a day (when considering, again, weekly indicators of manifestations). The disease is accompanied by nocturnal attacks, and in this form they occur more often than twice a month.
3. Moderate persistent asthma. The patient is plagued by almost daily attacks of the disease. Night attacks are also observed more than 1 per week. The patient has disturbed sleep and physical activity. FEV1 or PSV - 60-80% of normal breathing, PSV range - 30% or more.
4. Severe persistent asthma. The patient suffers from daily asthma attacks, with several night attacks per week. Physical activity is limited, accompanies. FEV1 or PSV is about 60% of normal breathing, the spread of PSV is 30% or more.

Depending on the level of complexity of the disease, the symptoms of the disease may be different:

• compression in the chest, as well as heaviness in the chest,
• wheezing,
• difficulty breathing, called dyspnea,
• cough (often occurring at night or in the morning),
• wheezing when coughing,
• attacks of suffocation.

Symptoms of bronchial asthma

As we have already found out, bronchial asthma is a disease of an allergic nature, which can be infectious or non-infectious in nature. In any case, the symptoms of bronchial asthma manifest themselves in sudden attacks, as with any other allergy.

Before the onset of an attack, there is a period of precursors, which is manifested by irritability, anxiety, sometimes weakness, and less often drowsiness and apathy. Lasting about two or three days.

External manifestations:

• facial redness
• pupil dilation
• possible nausea, vomiting

With an increase in bronchial reactivity, characteristic symptoms of asthma are observed:

• shortness of breath, heavy breathing, suffocation. Occur as a result of contact with an irritating factor;
• attacks of dry cough, more often at night or in the morning. In rare cases, it is accompanied by a slight release of clear mucous sputum;
• dry wheezing - whistling or creaking sounds that accompany breathing;
• difficulty in exhaling against the background of a full inhalation. To exhale, patients have to take an orthopneic position - sitting on the bed, firmly grasping the edge of the bed with their hands, while resting their feet on the floor. The fixed position of the patient facilitates the process of exhalation.

Symptoms of severe disease

• Acrocyanosis and diffuse bluishness of the skin;
• Enlarged heart;
• Signs: chest enlargement, decreased breathing;
• Pathological changes in the structure of the nail plate - nails crack;
• Drowsiness
• Development of secondary diseases – dermatitis, runny nose (rhinitis).

It should be noted that the symptoms of bronchial asthma are very different from one another. This also applies to the same person (in some cases the symptoms are short-lived, in others, the same symptoms are longer and more severe). Symptoms vary among different patients. Some people do not show signs of the disease for a long time, and exacerbations occur very rarely. For others, attacks occur daily.

There are patients whose exacerbations occur only during physical activity or infectious diseases.

As for the nature of the course of bronchial asthma, it varies depending on the age of the patient:

• a disease that began in childhood often enters a phase of spontaneous remission by the prepubertal period;
• every third patient who became ill at the age of 20–40 years also experiences spontaneous remission;
• in the next 30% the disease occurs with alternating periods of exacerbation and remission;
• The last 30% of cases of the disease in young and middle-aged people are characterized by a constantly progressive, severe course of the disease.

Diagnostics

The diagnosis is usually made by a pulmonologist based on complaints and the presence of characteristic symptoms. All other research methods are aimed at establishing the severity and etiology of the disease.

For an accurate diagnosis, tests are done:

1. Spirometry. Required for breath analysis. The person being tested forcefully exhales air into a special device - a spirometer, which measures the maximum expiratory flow rate.
2. Chest X-ray. A necessary study, which is prescribed by a doctor to identify concomitant diseases. Many respiratory tract diseases have symptoms similar to bronchial asthma.
3. complete blood count (increased number of eosinophils - over 5%);
4. biochemical blood test (increased IgE content);
5. sputum analysis (elements specific to bronchial asthma are detected - Kurshman spirals, Charcot-Leyden crystals, as well as a significantly increased level of eosinophils);
6. ECG (during an exacerbation of the disease, the cardiogram shows signs that the right parts of the heart are experiencing overload);
7. An extremely important direction in examining patients for bronchial asthma is a study aimed at identifying specific allergens that provoke allergic inflammation due to the patient’s contact with them. Testing is carried out to determine sensitivity to the main groups of allergens (fungal, household, etc.).

Treatment of bronchial asthma in adults

Treatment of bronchial asthma is a painstaking and lengthy work, which includes the following methods of therapy and drug treatment:

1. Drug treatment of bronchial asthma in adults, including basic therapy aimed at supportive and anti-inflammatory treatment, as well as symptomatic therapy aimed at relieving symptoms accompanying asthma;
2. Elimination of disease development factors (allergens, etc.) from the patient’s life;
3. Diet;
4. General strengthening of the body.

Medications

Treatment of bronchial asthma in children and adults should be comprehensive and long-term. As therapy, basic therapy drugs are used that affect the mechanism of the disease, through which patients control asthma, as well as symptomatic drugs that affect only the smooth muscles of the bronchial tree and relieve an attack of suffocation.

Symptomatic therapy drugs include bronchodilators:

• β2-agonists
• xanthines

Basic therapy drugs include:

• inhaled corticosteroids
• Cromons
• leukotriene receptor antagonists
• monoclonal antibodies.

It is necessary to take basic therapy, because Without this, the need for inhaled bronchodilators (symptomatic drugs) increases. In this case and in the case of insufficient dosage of basic drugs, an increase in the need for bronchodilators is a sign of an uncontrolled course of the disease.

Theophyllines (xanthine derivatives), which have a bronchodilator effect, prevent respiratory failure, and relieve fatigue of the respiratory muscles.

Bronchodilators that dilate the bronchi (fenoterol, salmeterol, saltos). They help clear mucus from the bronchi and ensure free flow of air. Treatment of bronchial asthma is carried out with short- or long-acting bronchodilators:

• The first instantly relieve the symptoms of the disease, and their effect occurs after administration of the drug within a few minutes and lasts about 4 hours.
• Long-acting bronchodilators are used to control the disease and last for more than 12 hours.

To remove sputum from the bronchi and trachea, two types of medications are used:

• expectorants (thyme, thermopsis, licorice roots, marshmallow, elecampane). The contraction of the muscles of the respiratory tract increases, phlegm is pushed out. Expectorant medications activate the production of secretions from the bronchial glands, due to which the density of sputum decreases;
• mucolytic (“ACC”, “Mukodin”, “Mistabron”). They reduce the production and thin out mucus, making it easier to expel.

Bronchodilators relieve spasm, making breathing easier. Apply:

• inhalation (aerosol) with short-acting substances (Barotek, Hexoprenaline, Berodual, Salbutamol) and long-acting substances (Formoterol, Salmeterol, Fenoterol, Ipratropium bromide). In some situations, medications are combined. For systemic treatment, Serevent and Oxys are used for long-term effect;
• tablets or capsules (Eufillin, Teopek, Teotard).

Most often, bronchial asthma occurs with allergic symptoms, so it is recommended to take antiallergic drugs:

• Loratadine;
• Diphenhydramine;
• Terfenadine;
• etc.

Relief of acute asthma attacks

B2-adrenergic agonists. This group includes the following drugs: Salbutamol, Terbutaline, Fenoterol (short-acting drugs) and Salmeterol, Formeterol (long-acting drugs). This group of drugs has several effects:

• relaxes the smooth muscles of the bronchi
• reduce vascular permeability, therefore, swelling of the mucous membrane decreases
• improve bronchial cleansing
• block the occurrence of bronchospasm
• increase the contractility of the diaphragm.

After stopping acute attacks, basic treatment is prescribed, which aims to stabilize the situation and prolong the period of remission. The following tools are used for this:

1. information education of the patient on the prevention and relief of an acute attack;
2. assessment and monitoring of the patient's condition using spirometry and peak flowmetry;
3. blocking or removing triggers;
4. the use of drug therapy, the development of a clear plan of measures carried out both during periods of remission and during acute attacks;
5. carrying out immunotherapy;
6. rehabilitation therapy, which consists of the use of medications, treatment of asthma in a sanatorium;
7. registration and being under constant supervision of an allergist.

Diet

Many patients are interested in what diet is best for bronchial asthma and what are the main goals of its implementation. The main goals of the diet in the presence of bronchial asthma are:

• decrease ;
• stabilization of metabolic processes in the lungs;
• reduction of bronchospasms;
• improvement of immunity.

In addition, a properly selected diet helps reduce allergic reactions and eliminate allergens that provoke an attack.

• It is necessary to limit the consumption of strong fish and meat broths, extractive products;
• exclude eggs, spicy and salty foods, citrus fruits, mustard, fish, peppers and other spices, crabs, nuts, and crayfish from the menu.

1. All foods that cause allergies should be excluded from the diet.
2. Steam dishes, simmer after boiling, bake and boil.
3. Some products require special pre-treatment. For example, potatoes are first soaked for 12-14 hours, vegetables and fruits - 1-2 hours, meat is double boiled.

Allowed products for bronchial asthma

If you have this disease, you should eat the following foods:

• Apples. They contain a large amount of pectin. You can make delicious puree from apples and bake them in the oven along with other products.
• Vegetables. Thanks to carrots, sweet peppers, tomatoes, and herbs, a person’s immunity increases.
• Cereals. They are a source of vitamin E.
• Yogurts that do not contain additives provide the patient with calcium and zinc.
• Lean meats. They are rich in a substance such as phosphorus. This meat contains healthy dietary fiber.
• Chicken liver. This product is rich in vitamin B12. It improves the condition of the hematopoietic system and thyroid gland.
• Wheat bread. It contains a large amount of zinc. Wheat bread increases the body's resistance to allergens.

Prohibited foods

A diet for bronchial asthma also implies the exclusion of certain foods from the diet. It is undesirable to consume the following foods if you have bronchial asthma:

• nutritional supplements;
• salt;
• spicy seasonings;
• fatty rich broths;
• semolina porridge;
• eggs;
• nuts;
• citrus;
• alcohol.

It is also worth limiting the consumption of foods with high levels of histamine, such as tomatoes, smoked meats, cheese, caviar, spinach. The consumption of salt and sugar should be in strictly limited quantities, as these products contribute to the occurrence of edematous processes in the lungs and bronchi, which can lead to attacks of suffocation.

Folk remedies for asthma

Before using folk remedies, you need to consult a pulmonologist. Self-medication can worsen the course of bronchial asthma.

1. Thin phlegm and reduce cough A decoction of viburnum to which honey is added will help. This green leaves of the medicinal herb are placed in a mortar to prepare an infusion, the same effect can be obtained by consuming 2 heads of garlic with 5 lemons daily.
2. “Pulmonary collection” of herbs relieves asthma symptoms well. It includes coltsfoot flowers, elecampane root, thyme, mint, plantain and marshmallow. 1 tablespoon of the composition is poured into 250 ml of water, left on the stove for 5 minutes and allowed to brew for 50-60 minutes. Drink 100 ml three times a day before meals. Course - 2-3 weeks.
3. Good immuno-strengthening agents Elecampane tincture is effective for bronchial asthma. To make it you will need 2 liters of whey, 1 glass of honey and 100 grams of crushed elecampane root. This infusion is drunk half a glass three times a day.
4. Turnip root, which contains ascorbic acid, carotene, multivitamins and minerals, has long been used to treat coughs, loss of voice due to colds and asthma. To do this, pour 2 tablespoons of grated root vegetables into a glass of boiled water and boil for 15 minutes. You need to drink 100 ml three times a day. The course is from 2 to 4 weeks.
5. Application of breast collection: 1 tsp. pharmaceutical breast collection + licorice root + anise fruits + elecampane. To the herbs you need to add 1 tsp. honey and take 3 spoonfuls. in a day.

In general, at present, despite the lack of drugs that completely eliminate the problem, the prognosis is favorable, thanks to modern drugs that alleviate symptoms.

Properly selected treatment allows patients with bronchial asthma to effectively combat exacerbations of the disease. But the patient must pay special attention to the factors that provoke attacks of suffocation and independently take all measures to prevent another exacerbation of the disease.

Prevention

The main means of prevention for patients with an allergic form of the disease is the elimination of the allergen from its environment. The following recommendations must also be followed:

1. frequent wet cleaning of the premises;
2. If you have an allergic reaction to animal fur, stop keeping pets;
3. do not use hygiene products and perfumes with harsh and strong fragrances;
4. If you have a professional allergy, a change of job is advisable.

Bronchial asthma must be treated under the supervision of a pulmonologist. When the first symptoms of bronchial asthma appear, a mandatory consultation with a specialist and a thorough diagnosis are required. Take care of yourself and your health!

During an attack of bronchial asthma, the patient experiences a very sharp compression of the bronchial tissues, and a large amount of secretion begins to be produced, as a result of which the required amount of oxygen does not enter the lungs.

That's why it is important to take such measures of assistance, which will help suppress secretion production, relieve severe tension in the bronchial muscles and remove inflammatory processes along with an allergic reaction.

Asthma attack: features

What to do if you don't have an inhaler?

If for some reason you do not have an inhaler, you need to breathe over the steam and water in which jacket potatoes are boiled. To do this, you need to bend over the pan, after covering your head with a terry towel. This method will promote the opening of the bronchi and.

Cupping massage helps very well. To do this, you need to moisten a cotton wool wrapped around a pencil in alcohol and set it on fire. Burn the can with fire and secure it on your back. Do this until the cans cover the entire area between the shoulder blades. Before the massage, lubricate your back with Vaseline or any nourishing cream. Keep the jars for 1-2 minutes.

You can grate 2 onions on a fine grater and put this mixture on your back.

First aid

1. Be sure to free your neck and chest from constricting clothing.
2. Open the window for fresh air.
3. Use an inhaler. If there is no effect, apply it again after 10 minutes.
4. To relieve suffocation, you can take a tablet called Eufillin.
5. It is also necessary to take any antihistamine.
6. Make a hot bath with mustard. To do this, dilute a tablespoon of powder in hot water and place your feet in the water. Keep them for 5-7 minutes.
7. You can also add a spoonful of soda to a glass of hot milk and drink this mixture. This will expand the bronchi and facilitate the release of sputum.

Algorithm for providing assistance

Anyone who witnesses a person suffocating on the street should call an ambulance. But before her arrival, the person needs to provide first aid. It is divided into the following stages.

1. Be sure to sit the patient on a hard surface or hold him by tilting him forward. This will allow the asthmatic to breathe easier.
2. If the asthmatic has an inhaler with him, spray the medicine into the mouth.
3. If the effect does not occur after 10 minutes, repeat the steps again.
4. Rub the patient's back so that due to rubbing, a rush of blood to the bronchi begins.
5. It is recommended to give validol, corvalol or any other sedative.
6. Rub the asthmatic's hands vigorously so that proper blood flow begins.

The patient must study the symptoms of the onset of an attack in order to reduce suffocation. It is better to use the inhaler in advance to avoid complications. You also need to remember an important rule: always have all the necessary medications with you.

Bronchial asthma is a chronic allergic disease characterized by attacks of shortness of breath or suffocation. The disease occurs in both children and adults. Every year the number of people suffering from this pathology is growing. Many countries, realizing the seriousness of the problem, annually allocate impressive sums for the treatment and rehabilitation of such patients. The fourth of May is celebrated around the world as the day against bronchial asthma.

How does the disease develop?

And in children, this is one of the manifestations of so-called atopy. This means that the patient’s body reacts inadequately to stimuli familiar to other people. Where a healthy person will not even notice the allergen, an asthmatic will suffocate from a sudden attack. Experts have still not been able to find out the exact cause of the development of the pathology. It is believed that atopic diseases are inherited (more precisely, a tendency to one or another type of allergy). The negative impact of harmful environmental factors on the development of bronchial asthma has also been noted.

Classification

Depending on the cause of the disease, bronchial asthma is divided into allergic and non-allergic. In the first case, the source of the problem may be plant pollen, pet hair, unfamiliar food, or taking certain medications. Exacerbation of bronchial asthma in this case is clearly tied to contact with the allergen, and, as a rule, it is possible to determine the cause of the attack quite accurately.

Non-allergic asthma usually develops against the background of other chronic bronchopulmonary diseases. In this case, attacks of suffocation develop during an acute infection, stress or any other reasons not related to the action of the allergen. Emergency care for bronchial asthma in both cases includes the use of drugs that relieve bronchospasm and restore the patient’s ability to breathe fully.

Features of the course of the disease

Regardless of the cause that caused the development of the disease, there are 4 degrees of severity of bronchial asthma. Knowledge of this classification allows you to choose the right treatment and prevent the development of attacks in time.

1st degree - intermittent. At the first stage, attacks of the disease develop no more than once a week during the day and 2 times a month at night. Exacerbations are short, the functions of the bronchopulmonary system are slightly impaired.

Grade 2 - mild persistent. Attacks occur more than once a week. Exacerbations of the disease are longer, with disturbances in general condition, physical activity and sleep.

3rd degree - persistent moderate severity. Asthma exacerbations occur daily, leading to a significant deterioration in quality of life. Night attacks recur weekly. Each situation requires the mandatory use of drugs that dilate the bronchi.

Grade 4 - severe persistent. Frequent attacks - several times a day, not controlled by conventional non-hormonal medications. Physical activity is significantly reduced, night sleep is disturbed.

How does an attack develop?

When coming into contact with an allergen or other irritating factor, the first thing that occurs is shortness of breath. It becomes difficult for the patient to breathe, it is impossible to inhale the required amount of air. Choking and heaviness in the chest caused by bronchospasm occur. After some time, loud wheezing appears, audible from a distance. A cough occurs, first dry, then wet, with viscous sputum. The addition of the last symptom indicates the resolution of the attack and the patient’s exit from this state.

Severe anxiety, fear and thoughts of death haunt the patient. If bronchial asthma is not treated on time, complications develop that are dangerous to human health and life. That is why it is so important for every patient to always have with him drugs that stop an attack. Timely impact on the bronchi allows you to avoid worsening the condition and do without serious interventions.

Status asthmaticus - what is it?

This condition is one of the most common complications of bronchial asthma. Persistent bronchospasms that cannot be relieved by medications cause attacks of suffocation. The cough becomes unproductive and sputum is not produced. The patient takes a forced position - sitting or standing with the body tilted forward. This position allows you to breathe easier and wait for the ambulance to arrive. If left untreated, the patient loses consciousness. In severe cases, status asthmaticus can result in respiratory arrest and death.

Other complications of bronchial asthma

In the event that treatment was not carried out on time or turned out to be ineffective, the following conditions may develop:

• acute heart failure;
• acute respiratory failure;
• pneumothorax

Emergency care for bronchial asthma

The first step is to remove the allergen that caused the attack. If the source of the problem is unknown, everything that could cause an attack should be removed from the patient. There should not be many people around an asthmatic. If the condition allows, the patient should be moved to a quiet, calm room, where he can wait out the attack or wait for the ambulance to arrive.

Before the arrival of specialists, you should use drugs that cause dilatation of the bronchi. As a rule, every asthmatic carries inhalers with him, which allow him to quickly and effectively relieve an attack of suffocation. If you do not have the necessary medications at hand, you should sit the patient in the most comfortable position for him (with the torso tilted forward and leaning on his hands)

If the cause of the attack is food containing allergens, activated carbon or other sorbents will come to the rescue. Antihistamines, as well as various sedatives, will not interfere. A warm foot bath will help alleviate the condition somewhat.

Medicines used during an attack

Medicines for bronchial asthma are very diverse. At the delivery stage, salbutamol-based inhalers are most often used. This simplest mimetic of b-adrenergic receptors helps relieve spasms and dilate the bronchi, helping to remove viscous mucus from the body. This is the remedy that every asthmatic who knows about the possible development of an attack should have on hand. At the first sign of suffocation, take 1-2 breaths. If necessary, inhalation can be repeated after 5 minutes.

Glucocorticosteroid drugs have an excellent effect. They are available in the form of inhalations and are prescribed to patients whose attack is not controlled by b-blockers. Drugs for bronchial asthma are widely represented on the pharmacological market, and every asthmatic can choose the right drug for himself after consulting a specialist. It was noted that in patients using inhaled glucocorticosteroids within two years from the onset of the disease, the quality of life significantly improves and the frequency of asthma attacks decreases.

Emergency care for bronchial asthma also includes the use of Eufillin, a drug that dilates the bronchi. As a rule, it is used by the ambulance team to relieve an attack when the patient does not have inhaled medications with him. "Eufillin" is administered intravenously, usually combined with "Prednisolone" or other hormonal drugs. Together, these drugs relieve swelling, narrow the bronchi and facilitate the release of sputum. In most cases, the patient's condition improves significantly after using Eufillin.

When status asthmaticus appears, the doses of drugs are increased, plus Heparin injections are added. In case of coma development, treatment is carried out in intensive care conditions. To prevent hypoxia, humidified oxygen is used through a mask in the form of inhalations.

Complications of bronchial asthma usually require hospitalization in a therapeutic department. If cardiopulmonary failure develops, it may be necessary to carry the patient on a stretcher with a ventilator connected. Hospitalization is also necessary for the development of an attack that is not relieved by inhalation of Salbutamol or glucocorticosteroids, as well as in the case of status asthmaticus.

Forecast

Unfortunately, in many cases the disease progresses, leading to various complications. Chronic bronchial asthma is not uncommon among the adult population. Developing in early childhood, it is accompanied by frequent attacks, which significantly worsen the patient’s quality of life. Over time, it forms, characterized by expansion of the distal sections of the bronchi. The lung tissue stretches and is unable to provide the body with sufficient oxygen. Hypoxia affects all organs, primarily the heart and brain. Progressive respiratory failure requires the use of increasingly serious groups of drugs.

Unfortunately, even with all preventive measures, it is impossible to guarantee the complete absence of attacks. Patients suffering from bronchial asthma should always keep salbutamol preparations with them. Timely provision of assistance will help not only get rid of unpleasant symptoms, but also prevent the development of various complications.

Beauty and health, fitness and sports, relationships.

Bronchial asthma is called the “pneumonic plague of the 20th century.” Unfortunately, it does not give up its positions in the 21st century. Approximately every tenth person on the planet now suffers from asthma. This disease spares neither children nor the elderly, and prevents people in their prime from living and working fully - they account for the largest percentage of asthmatics.

But if in children, with proper and timely treatment, bronchial asthma in most cases goes away and the child, growing up, can forget about his illness, then asthma in adults is considered incurable. Does this mean that an asthmatic is doomed to live in constant fear of an inevitable attack? That he should give up a full life? No. Everything depends on the patient himself - on how competently and carefully he will carry out constant (basic) treatment, how he will strengthen his body and protect himself from allergens, how timely he will prevent the development of an attack. Like any chronic disease, bronchial asthma undergoes periods of remission (when the disease recedes) and periods of exacerbation. The main and literally vital task of an asthmatic is to prevent an exacerbation in time, and if this still fails, to quickly and effectively stop (relieve) the attack.

Mechanism of disease development

Bronchial asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways, which increases their sensitivity to numerous irritants. The main manifestations of the disease are paroxysmal bronchial obstructions (spasms of small bronchi, swelling of the mucous membrane and accumulation of fluid in the bronchi). Clinically, this manifests itself as recurrent episodes of choking, coughing, and wheezing.

Asthma is caused by allergic inflammation in the small bronchi, which can be caused by allergens that we inhale in the air (aeroallergens or inhalant allergens). They are particles of household dust, pollen, mold, automobile emissions, chemical compounds (cosmetics, perfumes, various cleaning products, etc.). Often an allergic reaction is caused by pets (epithelial particles, fur, bird feathers and even insect secretions). In addition to aeroallergens that float in the air, food can be a source of allergens for asthma: eggs, milk, cereals, fish, onions, chocolate, etc. Alcohol has a negative effect on the development of the disease. Which allergens can cause worsening of the condition is determined individually for each patient using special tests.

Asthma caused by aeroallergens is called atopic. In addition, there is infectious asthma. This does not mean that you can become infected with it. An infectious allergy can cause inflammation in the bronchi in an asthmatic. Microorganisms that are harmless to a healthy person lead to exacerbation of asthma in a patient with asthma. With inflammation in the bronchi, their sensitivity to the effects of minimal irritating factors increases. Cold air, rapid breathing, and strong odors cause spasms of the muscles surrounding the bronchi. The lumen of the bronchi narrows, and air can no longer pass freely through them. Breathing becomes difficult. In addition, thickened bronchial mucus (phlegm) can be difficult to clear. As it accumulates, it forms traffic jams. The bronchial mucosa swells, and as a result, their patency is further reduced. Shortness of breath, a nonproductive cough appear, and the patient suffers from suffocation. It is easier for air to enter the bronchi than to leave them, so breathing is difficult when exhaling. A characteristic feature of an asthma attack is a sharp short inhalation with a weakened, extended, incomplete exhalation.

What to do during an attack?

An attack of bronchial asthma is difficult to confuse with anything; it proceeds very violently. Suddenly, within a few seconds, shortness of breath occurs, wheezing in the lungs, audible even at a distance, and a dry paroxysmal cough appear. The patient complains of a feeling of fullness in the chest, it is difficult for him to exhale, and he has to make enormous efforts to push the air out of the chest. He instinctively bends down and rests his hands on something (a table, a wall, the back of a chair) in search of a position in which the muscles would help the lungs breathe.

One of the most comfortable positions during an asthma attack is astride a chair (facing the back). You need to place a pillow under your chest so that you can rest against the back of the chair.

If you have an asthma attack, first of all try to calm down and normalize your breathing, trying to exhale all the air from your lungs. This is very important because the patient’s condition during an attack largely depends on the ability to relax and calm down. In young children suffering from asthma, an attack can be relieved by stroking the back (massage plus a feeling of comfort) and calm assurances that everything is fine and that everything will pass soon. The child calms down, and the attack actually goes away. It’s more difficult with adults; they are not so trusting. Therefore, you must try to bring yourself into a balanced state through self-hypnosis or relaxation - choose what suits you best.

Open a window to provide fresh air. And immediately (the sooner the better!) use a metered dose inhaler (it should always be at hand) with one of the short-acting bronchodilators: salbutamol (Ventolin, Salben), fenoterol (Berotec) or terbutaline (Bricanil). These medications are called “rescue” drugs for asthma. They help to quickly relieve an attack of suffocation by acting on the smooth muscles of the bronchi. Take two inhalations. If the condition does not improve, after 10 minutes - two more. The drugs act quickly (in 2-3 minutes), and the duration of their effect is 4-5 hours. There is no point in repeating inhalations more than 2 times with an interval of 10-15 minutes if the medicine does not help. Increasing the dose and frequency of administration may cause side effects (dizziness, weakness, headache, rapid heartbeat) due to overdose.

In addition to inhalations, aminophylline, an effective bronchodilator, is used to relieve an attack of suffocation. This is what emergency doctors most often use when responding to a call about an acute attack of bronchial asthma. When administered intravenously, aminophylline acts very quickly. If you refuse medical help and limit yourself to taking a pill, the desired effect will occur only after 30-40 minutes. And half an hour is an eternity for a person suffocating from suffocation.

Take 1-2 tablets of any antihistamine (antiallergic) drug: suprastin, diphenhydramine, tavegil, claritin. I would like to draw your attention to the fact that these drugs are more effective at the very beginning of an attack.

In case of a severe attack of bronchial asthma, emergency doctors, as a rule, also give an intravenous or intramuscular injection of glucocorticoids (hormonal drugs) - prednisolone or dexamethasone. If the condition worsens and inhaled drugs are ineffective, the patient can take a prednisolone tablet himself.

Home remedies

You can try to alleviate the condition during an acute attack of bronchial asthma with home remedies. Dissolve baking soda in boiling water (2-3 teaspoons per glass of water) and add a couple of drops of iodine. Breathe over this solution, then take a few sips (before doing this, cool the solution slightly - it should be warm). If this method does not immediately help, you should not continue.

Another way to help with an asthma attack is cupping massage. One of the household members must own it, since it is impossible to make it yourself. The already described position of sitting astride a chair is ideally suited for cupping massage. You will need one medical jar, Vaseline, a cotton swab wound on a pencil and soaked in alcohol, matches. Lubricate the patient’s back with Vaseline, place the jar on the lung area (to do this, insert a lit cotton swab inside the jar for a second and, quickly removing it, press the jar to the skin). Slowly move the jar up and down the patient's back (with enough Vaseline, this procedure does not cause pain). Do this massage for 1-2 minutes on one side of the back (for example, on the right). Then carefully remove the can by pressing your finger against the skin at the base of the can and letting air into it. Repeat the massage on the other side of your back.

Make hot foot and hand baths, put mustard plasters on your chest. These simple procedures help make breathing easier.

In the clinical picture of an attack of bronchial asthma, three periods are distinguished: the pre-asthmatic state, the height of the attack and the period of reverse development.

The first period is important because it makes it possible to recognize in advance the approach of an exacerbation and try to prevent it. At this time, the patient feels congestion in the chest, making it difficult to breathe, coughs, has copious discharge from the nose, and sneezes. He gets tired quickly, becomes irritable, and has trouble sleeping. These are the warning signs of an attack.

The height of the attack occurs in about a day or two. Usually the most severe attacks occur at night. In addition to the manifestations of an attack, which were mentioned earlier, the patient’s condition can also be determined by external signs: during an attack, the face becomes puffy, pale, the skin, lips and nail beds turn blue, chills and sweat appear.

After taking the medication, there is a period of regression. The sputum leaves (at first thick, viscous, then more liquid), and the suffocation gradually subsides.

Treatment of asthma during an attack differs from those therapeutic measures taken during remission. An individual basic therapy regimen should be developed for each patient. Only in this case can you control your condition and detect the approach of an attack in time. A treatment regimen carefully selected by an allergist or pulmonologist will help the patient feel confident and live a full life.

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Bronchial asthma attack

Bronchial asthma is a disease of the respiratory system, characterized by increased sensitivity to various external irritants; an exacerbation of the pathology is an attack of bronchial asthma.

Like any other chronic disease, bronchial asthma has periods of remission and exacerbation, the main task of the patient is to prevent an attack or reduce the risk of its occurrence, and if it does occur, to promptly stop it.

To prevent asthmatic exacerbation, it is necessary to use competent basic therapy, strengthen the body and limit interaction with allergens.

Causes of an asthmatic attack

The causes of bronchial asthma attacks can be a variety of non-allergic and allergic factors.

An attack of an allergic nature can be triggered by the influence of an external agent, which, during the process of breathing, penetrates the bronchi and causes a reaction of the immune system.

The most common allergens that can cause an asthma attack are:

• Food;
• preservatives;
• seasonings;
• plant pollen;
• animal hair and epidermis;
• dust, etc.

Very often, exacerbations are seasonal in nature, accompanied by lacrimation, runny nose and cough.

An attack of non-allergic asthma can be caused by any even the slightest irritation of the bronchial tree, which contributes to the occurrence of spasms:

• tobacco smoke;
• strong smell of perfumes, household chemicals;
• gases from exhaust pipes and industrial impurities;
• long-term use of medications;
• respiratory infection;
• inhalation of air of high or low temperature.

A reaction to an external pathogen can provoke an attack not immediately, but several minutes after contact with the agent.

Symptoms of an asthma attack

An asthma attack is accompanied by a sharp deterioration in the patient's well-being, the appearance of shortness of breath, coughing, and prolonged exhalations and requires immediate medical treatment.

The acute manifestation of the disease usually manifests itself in several attacks, between which the patient feels relatively well.

Attacks can begin unexpectedly at any time of the day, but more often at night, when the patient wakes up from a feeling of tightness in the chest and a sharp lack of air.

The patient cannot exhale and free the chest from the air that overwhelms it. In order to exhale, the patient assumes a sitting position on the bed and resting his hands on it; this stabilization of the muscles facilitates the breathing process.

At the time of an attack, the patient tries to include in the breathing process not only the respiratory system, but also additional shoulder and pectoral muscles.

An asthma attack cannot be confused with anything else; it occurs instantly and almost within a few moments manifests itself in shortness of breath, clearly audible whistling and wheezing in the lungs.

Paroxysmal exacerbation of bronchial asthma is accompanied by the following symptoms:

• cough of a dry or wet form with the release of clear sputum in a small volume;
• shallow inhalations and prolonged whistling exhalations;
• difficulty breathing;
• pain in the lower chest (occurs during a prolonged attack);
• wheezing, audible even at a distance from the patient;
• taking a position while sitting with support on your hands (the patient is forced to take this position to facilitate exhalations);
• fatigue, anxiety;
• headaches, tachycardia;
• nonspecific signs such as sneezing, sore throat, runny nose, etc.

If treatment is not carried out when the first signs of an attack appear, then the symptoms of asthma begin to intensify, wheezing becomes more intense and louder, the patient’s voice, skin tone and behavior change.

Depending on the intensity of symptoms and the condition of patients, three stages of an asthmatic attack are distinguished:

A prolonged attack in which beta-agonists (drugs that quickly stop an attack) have no effect;

Auscultation reveals areas in which respiratory sounds cannot be heard, which indicates blockage of the bronchial tree with viscous sputum;

An uncontrolled form of asthma is marked by signs of hypoxic coma, a drop in blood pressure, the patient experiences inappropriate behavior and confusion. Failure to provide timely assistance leads to cardiac arrest.

Diagnosis of an asthma attack

An asthma attack has a characteristic clinical picture: the patient has cyanosis of the skin, swollen veins, difficulty breathing, hoarse noises during breathing, audible even at a distance from him.

The chest seems to be fixed in the position of maximum possible inhalation, the ribs rise, the anteroposterior diameter of the chest increases, and the intercostal areas become convex.

Percussion examination of the lungs determines the expansion of their borders and a dull sound; on auscultation, elongated, prolonged exhalations and sounds of a different nature and tone appear.

During an asthma attack, it becomes difficult to listen to the heart, the pulse quickens, takes on a tense, rhythmic form, and blood pressure can either increase or decrease.

On palpation, it sometimes seems that the liver is enlarged in volume, this is explained by the fact that the expanded lungs push it to the lower part.

Exacerbation of asthma causes the patient to become irritable, fear of suffocation and death; in severe cases, the patient is unable to pronounce words in a row, as he feels the need to take a breath.

The attack may be accompanied by high body temperature, as well as the discharge of a small amount of mucus during coughing.

A blood test reveals an increased concentration of eosinophils, which indicates the presence of an allergic reaction, which resulted in an asthmatic attack.

An exacerbation of asthma can last from a couple of hours to several days, while the attacks do not stop or are replaced by short-term relief of symptoms.

The patient practically does not sleep, spends all the time sitting, loses strength, breathing is constantly accompanied by hoarse and whistling noises, sputum does not come out.

In this state, beta mimetics, which previously helped relieve the attack, lose their effectiveness completely or have a short-lived effect.

There is also a rapid heartbeat (up to 140 beats per minute), a reddish-bluish tint to the face, sweating, and high blood pressure, which further strains the heart.

Sometimes there is a discrepancy between the external signs of asthma and auscultatory diagnostic indicators: as a result of the filling of the bronchi with mucus, a weakening of wheezing and whistling sounds is noted.

During an asthmatic exacerbation, the patient begins to weaken, breathing becomes shallow, the feeling of suffocation gradually decreases, the pressure drops, and signs of heart failure appear.

A severe uncontrolled form of an asthma attack threatens the development of hypoxic coma and respiratory arrest.

Before loss of consciousness, the patient may experience convulsions, irritability, and loss of signs of conscious activity.

Therapeutic assistance

First aid for bronchial asthma, as a rule, is provided to the patient himself, and in order to quickly alleviate the attack on his own, you must follow the recommendations:

• calm down and relax as much as possible to normalize your breathing;
• try to exhale as much air as possible;
• create conditions for a full flow of air: open the window, free the chest and neck from clothing;
• immediately inhale 1-2 doses of a bronchodilator using a metered-dose inhaler or nebulizer (people with asthma should always have it with them);
• if relief from the attack does not occur, repeat inhalation after 10 minutes (do not increase the dose, as this can lead to an overdose and other side effects);
• taking an antihistamine prescribed by a doctor (if the attack occurred due to interaction with an allergic agent);
• If relief from an asthma attack does not occur, you should urgently call an ambulance.

The ambulance team will take all necessary measures to stop the attack.

Drug relief of an attack

Emergency care for bronchial asthma should begin with the timely use of a drug prescribed by the attending physician.

Inhalation treatment involves inhaling 1-2 doses of the drug; increasing the volume can be dangerous and cause side effects such as tremor, tachycardia or increased agitation.

If an exacerbation of asthma has not occurred for the first time and the patient has already been prescribed medication aimed at stopping the attack, it is necessary to immediately take the medication in the dose prescribed by the doctor.

If the patient experiences an exacerbation of asthma for the first time, he should immediately go to the hospital or call an ambulance.

Typically, an attack of bronchial asthma is stopped with the following medications:

• beta-blockers in the form of tablets or inhalations (in case of a mild attack) and in the form of injections (in severe forms of attack), relieving spasms in the bronchi;
• antihistamines if the attack is triggered by an allergic reaction;
• membrane mast cell stabilizers, which reduce histamine formation;
• glucocordicoid hormonal drugs. Eliminate the inflammatory process in the bronchial tree and spasms of smooth muscles, reduce swelling of the mucous membrane and improve sputum discharge.

Often the patient himself knows which medications and in what dosage bring relief during an asthma attack.

However, while inhalation treatment gives a full effect, resorting to intramuscular and intravenous administration of the drug is not recommended.

Help during an attack of bronchial asthma begins with inhalations of short-acting adrenergic agonists, which quickly relieve the attack and have virtually no side effects, which makes them a priority treatment during exacerbation.

The most preferred drug for emergency patient care is selective beta-blockers, such as Berotec or Salbutamol.

How to cope with an attack caused by an anaphylactic reaction

Emergency care for allergic bronchial asthma, accompanied by severe bronchospasm and suffocation, begins with adrenaline.

An injection of a 0.1% adrenaline solution can eliminate an attack a few minutes after administration.

However, taking this drug carries risks in the form of side effects in patients suffering from vascular atherosclerosis, myocardial diseases and hypertension, so the injection should be carried out in small doses and while monitoring the state of the cardiovascular system.

If the patient has intolerance to beta-agonists, treatment with anticholinergic blockers is recommended, which block cholinergic receptors and reduce the effect of the parasympathetic system, eliminating bronchial spasm.

The disadvantages of this group of drugs compared to beta-blockers include lower bronchodilator activity, as well as a later onset of therapeutic results.

The advantage of anticholinergic drugs is the fact that the use of this drug has almost no side effects in the cardiovascular system.

Anticholinergics and beta-blockers can be used in combination, which also leads to a reduction in side effects.

If a patient, as a result of a severe form of asthma, develops asthmatic status, accompanied by large edema, and also if it is impossible to use inhalations (the patient does not know the correct technique, which is why the effect does not occur), the drug Eufillin is the priority remedy for emergency care.

The injection of Eufillin should be carried out by a medical professional, as side effects such as tachycardia, nausea, headaches, etc. are possible.

If there is a high risk of side complications, the drug is administered by drip.

If a patient experiences an asthma attack for the first time, it is strictly forbidden to choose therapy to relieve it on their own; you should immediately call an ambulance.

How to prevent an attack

Prevention of exacerbation of asthma involves adequate, planned and systematic treatment of the pathology.

Priority methods of therapy are represented by inhaled forms of beta-blockers and corticosteroid drugs.

These drugs are used in 2 doses of inhalation 4 times a day; after taking glucocorticoid hormones, it is recommended to rinse the mouth to avoid candidiasis.

A patient diagnosed with bronchial asthma must maintain strict hygienic conditions and organize a hypoallergenic lifestyle in his home.

To do this, you should remove objects that provoke an attack: feather pillows and mattresses, flowering plants, soft toys and carpets, and it is also recommended to avoid contact with animals.

To reduce the risk of an asthma attack, it is necessary to limit the use of perfumes with strong odors, install air filters, stop smoking and control indoor humidity levels.

The patient's room must be regularly ventilated and wet cleaned, and it is recommended to change the bed weekly.

People suffering from asthma must systematically monitor temperature, respiratory and pulse rates, the nature of sputum, the volume of fluid drunk and urine excreted (in case of edema).

The patient should have adequate sleep and a balanced diet, while the use of foods, preservatives and additives that cause an allergic reaction is strictly prohibited.

One of the most effective methods for preventing exacerbations of asthma is breathing exercises, which help cleanse the mucous membrane of the respiratory system from microbes, enhance the drainage function of the bronchi, strengthen smooth muscles and normalize blood circulation.

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Bronchial asthma attack

Doctors are dumbfounded! Protection against FLU and COLDS!

Just need it before bed.

Bronchial asthma, like any other chronic disease, is characterized by phases of exacerbation and remission. Naturally, its symptoms manifest themselves most strongly during the acute course. The most significant and at the same time the most dangerous of them is an asthma attack. It occurs due to a hyperreaction of bronchioles to various stimuli. In this case, the bronchi narrow and swelling of their mucous membrane develops, leading to a sharp deterioration in respiratory function. The frequency and strength of such manifestations depend on many factors. For some patients, they occur rarely and disappear quickly, while others experience almost daily prolonged attacks of suffocation.

Of course, the key factor here is the actual presence of bronchial asthma in a person. But the specific reasons due to which the attack itself develops can be of a diverse nature and individual for each patient. Allergic irritants include:

• pollen or seeds of some plants;
• pet hair;
• house dust, certain types of molds;
• various small arthropods, most often mites;
• Food.

In people who are overly susceptible to such pathogens, asthma often manifests itself in childhood. In many cases, it is hereditary and is accompanied by other allergic reactions. In addition, endogenous causes may also be the culprits of asthma attacks:

• infectious diseases affecting the respiratory tract;
• exhaust gases, tobacco smoke;
• cosmetics and household chemicals with too strong odors;
• professional activities related to certain substances (their list is constantly updated and already numbers more than 200);
• long-term use of medications, often non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs;
• inhalation of cold air;
• physical or psychological stress.

The mechanism of this pathology is based on delayed reactions triggered by the reasons described above. With the allergic nature of an attack of suffocation, first there is a systematic release into the blood of bodies designed to combat irritants. But instead, the cells begin to attack the tissues of their own body. This happens due to a malfunction in the well-functioning mechanism of the immune system, in particular, leading to damage to components of the respiratory tract. This can cause swelling of their mucous membranes, accompanied by spasmodic contractions of the bronchial muscles. Secretory function is also impaired, as a result of which the amount of mucus produced increases sharply, clogging small air channels and making breathing difficult.

An attack of bronchial asthma, provoked by endogenous causes, occurs due to the hypersensitivity of the nerve tissues surrounding the bronchial mucosa. They begin to react sharply to unfavorable factors, causing bronchial spasm. In this case, an inflammatory process of a non-infectious nature develops, promoting abundant secretion of sputum, impaired respiratory function and, as a result, suffocation.

Particularly severe attacks are observed during an anaphylactic reaction. Its mechanism is based on the re-entry of the pathogen into the body and entails damage to organs and tissues. This condition is characterized by rapid progression, often threatening the patient’s life.

An asthma attack is characterized by a sudden deterioration in the patient's health. Its onset is usually accompanied by symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, and a feeling of chest tightness. Most often, patients feel it approaching in advance, but in some cases, suffocation occurs unexpectedly. In this case, the following signs are observed:

• cough, sometimes accompanied by slight sputum production;
• shallow labored breathing with whistling, pronounced wheezing when inhaling;
• increased heart rate;
• lethargy, sweating, feeling of unmotivated anxiety;
• in some cases, headache, lower chest hurts;
• Occasionally, nonspecific symptoms such as rhinitis, sore throat and others are observed;
• To facilitate the work of the muscles that help with breathing, a person instinctively assumes a forced sitting position.

As soon as the patient begins to feel the first signs of an asthma attack, it should be stopped immediately. Otherwise, the symptoms will become more intense. This is manifested by a changed voice, increased wheezing. Then the lips and limbs acquire a bluish tint, and consciousness becomes confused. If the attack of suffocation is not relieved, serious complications can occur, including death.

During the period of exacerbation of the disease, several such crisis moments most often occur, in the interval between which (the so-called interictal period) the patient is practically not bothered by unpleasant symptoms. Although an asthma attack can happen at any time, it is most common at night.

First aid

Most often, the patient is forced to provide first aid to himself for acute manifestations of bronchial asthma. In order to stop an attack as quickly as possible, you need to adhere to the following rules:

• First of all, you need to calm down. This will partially stabilize your breathing.
• With each exhalation, it is advisable to empty the lungs as much as possible.
• Air access to the respiratory tract should be facilitated. To do this, you need to loosen the clothes that are constricting the chest and neck areas and open the window.
• The so-called coachman's pose helps well: take a sitting position, straighten your back, stick out your stomach a little and relax your limbs. This will remove additional stress from the diaphragm and, accordingly, relieve harmful symptoms.
• At the first signs of incipient suffocation, it is necessary to inhale a drug that dilates the bronchi, which must be selected in advance together with the doctor. Carrying it with you is mandatory for asthmatics. If it was not possible to stop the attack, you should repeat the procedure after 10 minutes (and under no circumstances increase the dose!).
• Patients with asthma of an allergic nature use antihistamines in parallel with bronchodilators.
• If none of the above methods help, you need to call an ambulance.

• Read more about emergency care for bronchial asthma here.
• Everything about COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) will be useful to everyone.
• For sore throat, we recommend using the drug Bioparox.

Medicines

Treatment of attacks of the disease is selected individually for each person, since bronchial asthma has a variety of forms and mechanisms of development. The following drugs are mainly used:

• Beta blockers. Most often, inhalations are done with such agents as Salbutamol, Astmopent, Berotek. Sometimes they take medications in tablets - “Atropine”, “Eufillin”, “Theophedrine”. In severe cases of suffocation, drugs are administered by injection. This method should be used only as a last resort, when others no longer help.
• Antihistamines. Effective in the treatment of allergic asthma and its exacerbations. Suprastin, Tavegil, Diphenhydramine and others are usually used.
• Membrane stabilizing drugs. They are not able to relieve bronchospasm, but they can prevent it. This group includes “Ketotifen”, “Cromoglicate”, “Underfed”. These medications are often used in combination with bronchodilators.
• Glucocorticoids. They relieve bronchial inflammation, relieve swelling and facilitate sputum discharge.

For severe attacks of suffocation caused by an anaphylactic reaction, treatment should begin with an injection of adrenaline. But such a procedure should only be carried out under the supervision of a specialist, since the drug can cause serious complications on the cardiovascular system.

Treatment of bronchial asthma in the interictal period is prescribed individually. Since its development mechanism is infectious-allergic in nature, it is first necessary to find signs of chronic inflammation that cause increased sensitivity of the body to certain irritants. Most often these are diseases of the nasopharynx, such as adenoiditis and tonsillitis. After their treatment, a decrease in the intensity of asthma attacks is usually observed.

Contraindications

It often happens that nocturnal manifestations of exacerbation prevent a person from falling asleep. In this case, taking sedatives or sleeping pills is contraindicated, since these medications inhibit respiratory function.

It should also be remembered that an attack of bronchial asthma entails not only physical, but also strong psychological consequences. Therefore, a patient in such a state should never be left alone. If he has the appropriate medications, they must be used immediately.

Asthmatics are not recommended to stay in cold or damp rooms, as well as in places containing substances in the air that are suspected of causing exacerbations. Their professional activity should be moderately active; heavy physical labor is contraindicated.

Particularly severe attacks of suffocation can cause complications:

• Pneumothorax (valvular, closed). Its mechanism is based on tissue rupture, leading to leakage of air from the lung into the pleural cavity. It most often occurs in people who have had asthma for a long time. Pneumothorax is characterized by the sudden appearance of severe stabbing pain in the chest and an increase in other symptoms of the attack.
• Pneumomediastinum. This complication is similar to the previous one, only here the air enters the mediastinal tissue. Its signs are different in that the pain often radiates to the back of the sternum or neck.
• Bettolepsy. The condition develops after a surge in pressure in the chest, disrupting the blood supply to the brain. The result is a temporary clouding of consciousness.
• Atelectasis. Due to deterioration of lung ventilation, air does not enter the alveoli, which leads to their collapse. This happens when the bronchial canals are completely blocked by mucus.

To avoid exacerbation of asthma and the harmful symptoms that accompany it, the patient must clearly organize his daily life. It is necessary to maintain hygiene, do not use cosmetics and other products with strong odors, and monitor the temperature and humidity in the room. Healthy eating, proper rest and giving up bad habits are also important. At the first signs of an onset attack, it should be stopped immediately.

A specialist in the field of functional diagnostics, rehabilitation therapy for patients with respiratory diseases, develops and conducts training programs for patients with bronchial asthma and COPD. Author of 17 scientific papers on the treatment of the respiratory system.

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Asthma is a lung disease with repeated attacks accompanied by difficulty breathing. During an attack, small air passages in the lungs called bronchioles overreact to certain stimuli (asthmatic triggers). The airways become inflamed and blocked, and the muscles surrounding the bronchioles go into spasm. The access of air to the respiratory system is difficult, and therefore breathing is also difficult.

Although an asthma attack can occur at any age, about half of cases are first diagnosed in children under 10 years of age.

Symptoms

Asthma usually manifests itself periodically in the form of attacks. Between attacks there are no or minor symptoms.

A person increasingly lacks air, the cough intensifies, wheezing appears, a feeling of constriction in the chest - these symptoms can occur in any combination. A person cannot say two words without taking a breath.

When exhaling, you can hear wheezing and whistling. But during a severe attack you cannot hear them.

The attack can begin abruptly, with many severe symptoms at the same time.

But sometimes it develops slowly, and difficulty breathing increases gradually.

Characteristic posture during an attack

Typically, during an attack, a person sits leaning forward and has difficulty breathing. However, a child under two years of age may not adopt this position and may not be particularly concerned. Babies sometimes even lie on their backs, smiling and playing with rattles, despite an asthma attack.

During an asthma attack it is also possible:

• increased heart rate;
• increased breathing;
• suffocation;
• heavy sweating;
• weakness;
• fainting state;
• anxiety;
• excitation;
• cough (usually dry and hacking).

What to do

Calm the patient, give him the prescribed medications (usually in an inhaler) and sit him down. If sitting is uncomfortable for him, try finding a different position that allows him to breathe easier. Encourage the patient to wait quietly for the medicine to take effect, and give him plenty of fluids to clear the lungs. Sometimes this is just enough to relieve an attack.

If the attack occurs as a result of physical activity, sit the patient down. Let him rest and drink warm water in small sips. This will calm your breathing and open up air.

Do not force the patient to lie down, as breathing in this position will be even more difficult.

When to call a doctor

If all the measures taken do not alleviate the attack, immediately call an ambulance and describe all the details of the attack. Try to calm the patient, especially the child.

Don't hesitate to seek medical help. If the attack is severe and prolonged, or if the patient has a fever and chest pain, call a doctor immediately!

First aid for an asthma attack

Get help right away if a person with asthma shows signs of feeling lethargic, foggy, and has a bluish tint to their skin or if they lift their chin and shoulders to try to expand their chest and take in air. These are signs of respiratory failure, a life-threatening condition.

What doctors are doing

If the attack does not stop, hospitalization may be necessary. Anti-asthma medications (for example, inhalers or injections), oxygen and intravenous infusions are used to stop an attack. If the attack is caused by an infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics.

Treatment of asthmatic condition

If treatment fails and the airway remains blocked, the patient may develop a life-threatening condition. This severe and prolonged asthma attack responds to intensive drug treatment. Some patients also need oxygen masks and a special apparatus to facilitate breathing.

Desensitization treatment

If your asthma attacks are triggered by a known substance (an allergen), your doctor may prescribe a series of injections that introduce small amounts of the substance into your body. This helps desensitize the body's immune response to the allergen.

Help yourself

Be aware of the warning signs that an asthma attack is coming: coughing, chest tightness, changes in breathing, wheezing. If you experience these symptoms, use your inhaler (if prescribed) to prevent the attack from getting worse.

Try to calm down

Sit on a chair, close your eyes, breathe slowly and evenly. Tighten and relax the muscles of the body alternately, starting with the face (without holding your breath). First relax the muscles of your face, then your arms, legs and finally your whole body.

Breathe through closed lips

To maintain control of your breathing, learn to breathe through closed lips. Make sure that they do not open and that when you exhale slowly, a whistle is heard. Repeat the exercise until your breathing returns to normal. Do not swallow air with your mouth open.

Lean forward to stop coughing

Lean forward slightly, placing your feet on the floor. Take a deep breath and hold your breath for 1-2 seconds. Then cough twice into a tissue to clear the mucus.

If your asthma attack continues unabated, call your doctor.

Breath volume meter

Talk to your doctor about using this device to control your asthma. It measures the force of exhalation, which decreases during an attack. By noting the results, you will know what your normal exhalation force is. Having noticed its decrease, you can take measures to prevent an attack.

What else to remember

Drink at least 1.5 liters of water daily to thin out secretions in the respiratory tract. This will make coughing easier.

• Install air conditioners at home and in your car.
• Even if you have a lot to do, take breaks to rest.
• Don't plan more things than you can handle.

What else do you need to know

Asthma can be external (caused by a source outside the body), internal (caused by a source inside the body), or both. The causes of external (allergic) asthma can be some allergenic substances: plant dust, animal hair, house dust, mold, down pillows, food additives containing sulfites). This form of asthma usually begins in childhood and is often accompanied by eczema and allergies.

In internal asthma, the allergen is not obvious. Typically, attacks of the disease are preceded by a severe respiratory infection. Irritants, emotional stress, fatigue, noxious fumes, changes in temperature and humidity can worsen attacks of this type of asthma.

How to use the inhaler

To get the full therapeutic effect, you must use the inhaler correctly. By following our instructions, you will make your drug therapy as effective as possible.

1. Remove the mouthpiece and cap from the bottle. Then remove the cap from the mouthpiece.
2. Assemble the inhaler: Turn the mouthpiece on its side, find the small hole on the flat part, and insert the metal stem of the bottle into the hole.
3. Exhale completely through pursed lips. Then turn the inhaler over and gently wrap your lips and teeth around the mouthpiece.
4. Tilt your head back slightly. Inhale slowly and deeply. At the same time, press the bottle firmly against the mouthpiece once to dispense one dose of medication. Continue inhaling until you feel your lungs are full.
5. Remove the mouthpiece from your mouth and hold your breath for a few seconds.
6. Close your lips and exhale slowly. If your doctor has prescribed more than one dose of medication, wait at least a minute and repeat steps 3-6.
7. Rinse your mouth and throat. Drink a few sips of water.
8. Rinse your inhaler daily. Take it apart and wash the mouthpiece and cap under warm running water for a minute - or soak them in alcohol. Shake off excess liquid, dry the parts, and reassemble the inhaler. This will prevent the mouthpiece from becoming clogged.

Using a holding chamber

Talk to your doctor about using a retardant inhaler. With the help of such a device, it is easier to use the inhaler - especially during an acute attack of asthma, when the lungs weaken and coordination of movements is impaired. Here's how it's done.

1. Remove the protective cap from the inhaler and the chamber mouthpiece. Check if there are any foreign objects in it. Then insert the inhaler mouthpiece into the chamber.
2. Shake the camera and inhaler vigorously 3-4 times. Place the camera in your mouth and close your lips. Release one dose of medication from the inhaler into the chamber and inhale slowly.
3. Breathe deeply and slowly through your mouth until you take a full breath. (If you inhale too quickly, the device will let you know with a whistle.) Hold your breath for 5-10 seconds.
4. Remove the inhaler from your mouth, exhale and place the protective cap on the retention chamber.

How to manage your child's asthma

Raising a child with asthma is not an easy experience. But the more you learn about this disease, the better you can help your child keep the disease under control.

Find out everything you can about the disease

Try to find out what triggers your child's asthma attacks and take steps to avoid exposure to asthma triggers. Find out how to recognize when an attack is coming and what to do if it does begin. Ask your doctor what you can read about it.

Follow your treatment plan

To prevent acute asthma attacks, teach your child to avoid triggers, eat healthy, and drink plenty of fluids - especially water. Make sure he takes his medications exactly as prescribed by the doctor. If the child is too young to handle this on his own, help him.

You need to exercise wisely

Make sure your child follows the doctor's instructions regarding exercise. Although moderate exercise is usually healthy, a child with asthma should avoid some exercise. Ask your doctor if your child should take medicine before playing sports to prevent an asthma attack.

Tell your doctor about the side effects of your medications

Call your doctor if your medications cause side effects in your child. If he is taking aminophylline, pay attention to:

• nausea;
• diarrhea;
• vomiting;
• rapid pulse;
• strong heartbeat;
• dizziness;
• headache;
• poor sleep;
• hand trembling;
• rapid breathing;
• redness of the skin.

Stay calm during an attack

If your child has an acute asthma attack, do not panic. The calmer you are, the better you can help him. What's more, being calm and collected - and managing your child's anxiety - will help him recover faster.

Many children can stop an acute asthma attack by using an asthma medicine inhaler. If your doctor has prescribed this treatment, teach your child to use the inhaler at the first sign of an attack.

If you cannot stop the attack, call a doctor and carefully follow his instructions.

Be optimistic

Don't take your child's condition so gloomily. Asthma does not cause permanent damage to the lungs and is rarely fatal.

Do not prevent your child from living life to the fullest - provided that you do not forget about the illness and are constantly in contact with the doctor. By the way, even among Olympic champions there are asthma sufferers.

How to avoid an asthma attack

Asthma cannot be cured, but it can be kept under control. If you have asthma, use our tips.

Identify the causative agent of asthma

Try to identify and avoid substances and situations that trigger your asthma attacks. Your doctor will help you with this. Such pathogens may be:

• pollen;
• dust;
• mold;
• animal hair;
• feathers;
• insect parts;
• some foods, drinks, medicines;
• smoke and fumes;
• cosmetics such as perfumes and deodorants;
• tobacco smoke;
• traffic fumes; in smog;
• temperature changes;
• emotional factors: excitement, stress, fear, anger;
• laughing too hard.

Use your medications correctly

Take your prescribed medications regularly, exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Asthmatics are usually prescribed medications:

• preventing an allergic reaction in which the throat is compressed;
• preventing the formation of mucus in the respiratory tract;
• dilating bronchi.

Some patients also take steroids to reduce airway inflammation. Many asthma medications come in inhalers and nebulizers, as well as tablets and liquid forms.

Other asthma triggers

Sometimes an asthma attack occurs after taking aspirin, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, from the yellow food coloring tartrazine. Exercise can also trigger an asthma attack in some people, as the heat and dryness of the upper airways can cause the throat to tighten.

Don't forget about moderate daily physical activity, such as walking, swimming, cycling. All this will help prevent asthma attacks.

If asthma makes it difficult for you to sleep, do not take sleeping pills or sedatives - these drugs slow down and make breathing difficult. If you wake up at night coughing, place another pillow under your head.

Tell your doctor about all the medications you take.