| Courtesy American Lung Association
What is it? Asthma is an inflammatory condition of the lungs that makes it difficult to breathe. An estimated 34.1 million Americans have been diagnosed with asthma in their lifetime by a health professional. Asthma is chronic, meaning that inflammation is always present, even when there are no noticeable symptoms. When provoked by a trigger, the inflammation worsens and the insides of the airways produce extra mucus, swell even more, and the muscles that wrap around the airways may tighten. These changes produce airway obstruction, chest tightness, coughing and wheezing that can lead to asthma attacks. If severe, the symptoms can cause severe shortness of breath and low levels of oxygen in the blood.
What causes it?
No one knows what causes asthma but it is likely that certain genes and environmental factors play a part. The following are common irritants that trigger asthma symptoms: Allergens, such as pollen, animal dander or mold Cockroaches and dust mites Air pollutants and irritants Smoke Strong odors or scented products or chemicals Respiratory infections, including the common cold Physical exertion, including exercise Strong emotions and stress Cold air
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How does it affect my job? Asthma attacks are responsible for many missed school and work days. Of those reporting at least one asthma attack in 2003, children aged 5 to 17 years missed 12.8 million school days. Employed adults aged 18 years or older missed 10.1 million work days. Lost productivity due to missed work days, whether for you or your child, is a major contributor to the burden asthma has on the U.S. health care system. Your work performance may be reduced by congestion or difficulty breathing You may be hospitalized for an asthma attack or spend long hours in the emergency room for asthma attacks You may not sleep well at night You may not be able to take part in some activities which you enjoy that require physical activity
Asthma is a leading chronic condition causing limitation of activity. A survey found that nearly half of people with asthma say the disease limits their ability to take part in sports and recreation, 36 % say it limits their normal physical exertion (such as in the workplace) and 25 % say it interferes with their social activities. Work-related exposure to vapors, dust and smoke also can increase the risk of developing asthma. Approximately 15 % to 23 % of asthma cases in the United States are due to occupational exposures. According to one study, men working in forestry and with metals and women in the service industries (waitresses, cleaners and dental workers) have the highest risk for occupational asthma. Can it be prevented or treated? Asthma symptoms differ by each person. Management includes four components: Assessment involves determining asthma severity so therapy can be started and assessing asthma control to monitor and adjust therapy as needed. Education in asthma self-management includes developing a written asthma action plan, followed by recommended measures to control triggers, environmental factors and other illnesses. The final component is selection of medication that will work best for each person. |
