Do you know about the asthma care plan? No? Here are the reasons that highlight the importance of an asthma care plan and the ways it will help you to recognize worsening asthma.
What is asthma?
Asthma is a chronic illness followed by recurrent attacks of breathlessness and wheezing. As per the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 235 million people are affected by Asthma. The condition of Asthma happens due to the inflammation of the airways resulting in symptoms like coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, and chest tightness. However, in severe asthma cases it can result in decreased activity and inability to talk.
Anyone can be a sufferer of this deadly illness, as it spreads its wings in childhood and lasts for the whole life. Numerous factors are responsible for asthma condition including genetic factors, being overweight or obese, airborne irritants, allergies, and lifestyle.
How to control asthma condition?
Asthma is a never ending problem and asthma attack symptoms can worsen the situation. So, what should be done to control asthma? There are a number of ways that can help you to control asthma. You can keep it under control by avoiding triggers, using asthma drugs, and easing the symptoms. Moreover, you may also be advised to keep your child away from all sources of smoke and irritants.
But the primary source to get rid of the condition hides in the asthma care pathway that is asthma action plan. Considering the severity of the condition and medical history of the patient, you may be recommended an asthma care plan in written. The action plan tells you how you can treat your asthma on a daily basis.
What is an asthma care plan?
If you have ever experienced or witnessed the breathlessness of an asthma attack, it might be scary for you. So, how you can get rid of the condition, the answer is simple as you have to act quickly and make smart decisions. This can only be possible if you have a solid asthma care plan that makes life easier, and can also save a life.
The asthma action plan describes you the accurate information about when and how you or your child should use asthma drugs. Your action plan also describes what to do in case your attack get worsened. Additionally, the asthma care plan also explains when you or your child needs emergency care.
Also Read: Know asthma to take the breath of relax
What includes in the asthma action plan?
In general the doctor and you make the asthma care plan, and it includes the following:
- Treatment goals, including medications and emergency number
- Medicines to control the inflammation of the airways. When to take and what to do at the time of an asthma attack is very much crucial.
- The method to measure the peak expiratory flow (PEF) using a peak flow meter. PEF is used to determine the condition of the airways in people who have asthma. It also measures the speed of exhalation while breathing out.
- An asthma diary, where you can keep the record of triggers that cause your symptoms
The asthma action plan is based on varied zones, and the severity of these zones is defined by symptoms and the personal best peak expiratory flow (PEF) recorded over two to three-week period.
Zones of asthma care plan are as follows:
- Green Zone- Green is the region where you want to be. When you are in the green zone you have no asthma symptoms, and you also don’t need quick-relief treatment.
- Yellow zone- The yellow area is the caution zone. In this zone, your peak expiratory flow is 50% to 79% of your personal best measurement. When you are in this zone, you may not have any symptoms, but your lung function is reduced. In case you experience any symptoms, they may be mild to moderate, which may disturb your sleep.
- Red Zone- Red zone is the danger one in which your peak expiratory flow is less than 50% of your personal best measurement. In this zone, your symptoms may be severe, and you may also experience extreme shortness of breath and severe coughing. If you are in the red zone, seek medical attention immediately.
Also Read: Asthma – Don’t Make it Your Foe. Love it, instead
Conclusion:
Having an asthma care plan with you or with your loved one provides the sense of security, as it is the best way to prepare for asthma attacks. Following the guidelines mentioned above will make you feel secure and also lead a happy life.
