Asthmatics with low levels of vitamin D may suffer more severely from the disease than patients with sufficient levels of the vitamin, according to a study conducted by researchers from National Jewish Health in Denver and published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine.
"Our findings suggest that low vitamin D levels are associated with worse asthma," lead researcher E. Rand Sutherland said.
The researchers measured the vitamin D blood levels of 54 asthma patients, along with their lung function, airway hyper-responsiveness and response to steroid drug treatment.
Airway hyper-responsiveness measures the air passages' tendency to constrict, leading to breathing difficulty.
The researchers found that hyper-responsiveness was twice as high in patients with vitamin D levels below 30 nanograms per milliliter, lung function was worse, and the body responded more poorly to steroid therapy.
In addition, the bodies of people with low vitamin D levels produced more or the immune system signaling chemical TNF-alpha, which increases inflammation.
"It may be that vitamin D is acting as a modifier of the immune system or a modifier of steroid response in ways that are relevant to people with asthma," Sutherland said.
"There is a potential that restoring normal vitamin D levels in people with asthma may help improve their asthma."
The study also showed, consistent with prior studies, that overweight or obese participants were significantly more likely to suffer from vitamin D deficiency. Scientists believe that because fat sequesters vitamin D in the body, people with more body fat need higher levels of the vitamin.
Previous studies have shown that being overweight increases the risk of asthma. The new study suggests that vitamin D might at least in part explain that connection.
Asthma treatment also, in turn, increases the risk of vitamin D deficiency.
"It is ... known that glucocorticoids [steroids used in asthma treatment] increase the destruction of vitamin D, thus making patients with asthma at higher risk for vitamin D deficiency, which in turn decreases lung function and makes their disease worse," said Michael F. Holick, of Boston University.
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Indoor Air Pollution is a Serious Threat to Your Health
Indoor air pollution is arguably one of the most overlooked threats to human health, particularly affecting young children who spend an estimated 80% of their time indoors. Studies released in the past few years demonstrate clearly that poor indoor air quality not only increases asthma symptoms but can also be responsible for headaches, fatigue, nausea, allergic reactions, hormone imbalances and liver, kidney or central nervous system damage. Evidence has even been found that it causes cancer.
Most of us realize that outdoor air pollution is potentially dangerous. City smog, automobile exhaust and even more potent industrial wastes, being recognized health hazards, are systematically measured and documented. But a recent study by Johns Hopkins` Bloomberg School of Public Health found that in many cases, the level of indoor pollution was twice that of outdoor (other studies have claimed as much as 5 times higher) and that the presence of these elevated levels of pollution significantly increased asthma symptoms in the children being studied. These findings are all the more alarming paired with the fact that no regulations currently exist for indoor air quality, not even in schools or day care facilities!
Tufts University lecturer, Dr. Rebecca Altman, published another study in December of 2008 pointing out several of the most troubling aspects of this health threat. First, most people remain completely unaware of this lurking problem. And second, reducing people`s exposure is notoriously difficult because one major source usually can`t be isolated. Indoor air pollution can come from hundreds and even thousands of sources that have become so ingrained in our everyday lives; we no longer question them. They can include:
* Household cleaning products,
* Cosmetics,
* Chemical pesticides,
* Chlorine from ordinary tap water (chloramines and Trihalomethanes (THMs) are formed when chlorine combines with organic substances like skin, hair, or bacteria (etc.) during swimming or showering),
* Synthetic fragrances (contain phthalates),
* Dry cleaned clothes (dry cleaning uses perchloroethylene which is carcinogenic),
* Secondhand smoke (contains 200 known poisons and 43 carcinogens),
* Biological Pollutants (including mold, bacteria, viruses, pollen, dust mites and animal dander),
* Carpets and upholstery (bonding agents containing formaldehyde),
* Building and remodeling materials (including paint, lacquer, glue, particle board and plywood),
* Office machines and materials (including copiers, printers (ink), correction fluid, graphics and craft materials and photographic solutions),
* Radon gas (a carcinogen responsible for more than 20,000 deaths a year).
The good news, if indeed any can be found, is that indoor air pollution is infinitely more controllable than outdoor air pollution. There are many ways to reduce and even eliminate these pollutants from your home. With careful cooperation from educators and businesses, they can also be reduced at school and in the workplace.
An initial level of defense can include an air purifier or filter. Particularly useful against large particulate matter, they are recognized by leading health authorities (The American Lung Association, The Mayo Clinic, The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) and the British Allergy Foundation) as an effective means of controlling asthma symptoms. Proper ventilation of interior spaces is an equally important step towards increasing air quality.
Additionally, there are myriad ways to avoid even introducing toxins to your interior. For city dwellers, for example, installing a water filtration system not only increases the overall quality of your water but also eliminates chlorine and chlorinated gases from the air inside your home. Other measures include switching to natural cleaning products and cosmetics and keeping pesticide use to a minimum.
Biological pollutants can be minimized through regular cleaning and controlling moisture in areas like basements and bathrooms. You may also want to assess the efficiency of your vacuum`s filter system. Use of high-efficiency small particle filters in vacuums and air purifiers has been shown to significantly reduce interior particulate pollution and subsequently asthma and allergy symptoms.
Finally, it can be tempting, certainly these days, to save money by purchasing cheaper products when decorating, improving or building a home. But consider the health risks associated with toxin-releasing particleboard furniture or synthetic fibers, for example. And suddenly 'green' building materials or the more expensive solid wood furniture can become more appealing.
In the end, while all of these methods can work together to create a healthier interior environment and better overall health for yourself and family members, the real bonus is that many are equally beneficial to the planet. Altering your purchasing habits when buying home furnishings, cleaners, pesticides or cosmetics will avoid introducing harmful chemicals into your home and into the environment. But you can also feel satisfied that each purchase of an alternative product strengthens the market share of environmentally responsible products and businesses, creating a self-propagating system of increasing environmental health.
Most of us realize that outdoor air pollution is potentially dangerous. City smog, automobile exhaust and even more potent industrial wastes, being recognized health hazards, are systematically measured and documented. But a recent study by Johns Hopkins` Bloomberg School of Public Health found that in many cases, the level of indoor pollution was twice that of outdoor (other studies have claimed as much as 5 times higher) and that the presence of these elevated levels of pollution significantly increased asthma symptoms in the children being studied. These findings are all the more alarming paired with the fact that no regulations currently exist for indoor air quality, not even in schools or day care facilities!
Tufts University lecturer, Dr. Rebecca Altman, published another study in December of 2008 pointing out several of the most troubling aspects of this health threat. First, most people remain completely unaware of this lurking problem. And second, reducing people`s exposure is notoriously difficult because one major source usually can`t be isolated. Indoor air pollution can come from hundreds and even thousands of sources that have become so ingrained in our everyday lives; we no longer question them. They can include:
* Household cleaning products,
* Cosmetics,
* Chemical pesticides,
* Chlorine from ordinary tap water (chloramines and Trihalomethanes (THMs) are formed when chlorine combines with organic substances like skin, hair, or bacteria (etc.) during swimming or showering),
* Synthetic fragrances (contain phthalates),
* Dry cleaned clothes (dry cleaning uses perchloroethylene which is carcinogenic),
* Secondhand smoke (contains 200 known poisons and 43 carcinogens),
* Biological Pollutants (including mold, bacteria, viruses, pollen, dust mites and animal dander),
* Carpets and upholstery (bonding agents containing formaldehyde),
* Building and remodeling materials (including paint, lacquer, glue, particle board and plywood),
* Office machines and materials (including copiers, printers (ink), correction fluid, graphics and craft materials and photographic solutions),
* Radon gas (a carcinogen responsible for more than 20,000 deaths a year).
The good news, if indeed any can be found, is that indoor air pollution is infinitely more controllable than outdoor air pollution. There are many ways to reduce and even eliminate these pollutants from your home. With careful cooperation from educators and businesses, they can also be reduced at school and in the workplace.
An initial level of defense can include an air purifier or filter. Particularly useful against large particulate matter, they are recognized by leading health authorities (The American Lung Association, The Mayo Clinic, The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) and the British Allergy Foundation) as an effective means of controlling asthma symptoms. Proper ventilation of interior spaces is an equally important step towards increasing air quality.
Additionally, there are myriad ways to avoid even introducing toxins to your interior. For city dwellers, for example, installing a water filtration system not only increases the overall quality of your water but also eliminates chlorine and chlorinated gases from the air inside your home. Other measures include switching to natural cleaning products and cosmetics and keeping pesticide use to a minimum.
Biological pollutants can be minimized through regular cleaning and controlling moisture in areas like basements and bathrooms. You may also want to assess the efficiency of your vacuum`s filter system. Use of high-efficiency small particle filters in vacuums and air purifiers has been shown to significantly reduce interior particulate pollution and subsequently asthma and allergy symptoms.
Finally, it can be tempting, certainly these days, to save money by purchasing cheaper products when decorating, improving or building a home. But consider the health risks associated with toxin-releasing particleboard furniture or synthetic fibers, for example. And suddenly 'green' building materials or the more expensive solid wood furniture can become more appealing.
In the end, while all of these methods can work together to create a healthier interior environment and better overall health for yourself and family members, the real bonus is that many are equally beneficial to the planet. Altering your purchasing habits when buying home furnishings, cleaners, pesticides or cosmetics will avoid introducing harmful chemicals into your home and into the environment. But you can also feel satisfied that each purchase of an alternative product strengthens the market share of environmentally responsible products and businesses, creating a self-propagating system of increasing environmental health.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Asthma at work
Every year in the UK, up to 3,000 people develop
asthma because they are exposed to dangerous substances at work.
This is called occupational asthma.
750,000 people with asthma find that things
at work make their asthma worse.
In Ireland 80 to 100 people die from Asthma each year.
This section aims to help you understand what can cause asthma at
work, what you can do to prevent it, and what you can expect your
employer to do to help.
Occupational asthma - some substances at work can actually cause asthma.
This section includes information on occupational asthma, its causes, how to prevent it,
what employers need to do, how it is diagnosed and where you can go for more help.
People with asthma at work - offers advice about careers and avoiding triggers at
work for people who already have asthma.
The Workplace Charter is a list of recommendations to reduce the impact of asthma
in the workplace. .
Q . What is Occupational Asthma
Some substances that you might come across at work can actually cause asthma.
The condition can take weeks, months or even years to develop, depending on the person
and the substance.
If you think your asthma has been caused by something at work, look out for these clues:
* your asthma symptoms are worse during the working week, at work or after work
* your symptoms may get worse after work, or you may find your sleep is disturbed
during the night
* your symptoms improve when you have been away from work for several days
(for example when you are on holiday)
Q . Which substances cause
Occupational Asthma ?
Substances that can cause asthma are called respiratory sensitisers. Below is a list
of some of the main ones and the jobs where you are most likely to come across them.
* Chemicals called isocyanates are the most common cause of occupational asthma in the UK. There are many jobs in which you might be exposed to these chemicals, particularly spray painting, foam moulding using adhesives, and making foundry cores and surface coatings.
* Dust from flour and grain (pictured). Industrial baking, farm work and grain transport
* Wood dust, particularly from hard wood dusts and western red cedar. Carpentry, joinery
and sawmilling.
* Colophony – this is widely present in soldering fumes but also in glues and some floor
cleaners. Electronics industry
* Dust from latex rubber. Any job involving latex gloves, such as nursing or dentistry
* Dust from insects and animals, and from products containing them. Laboratory work, farm work or work with shellfish
There are over 200 other respiratory sensitisers and more are being identified all the time.
The Health & Safety Authority (HSA) publishes a list of the best known offenders.
The list is not exhaustive and will be updated regularly.
Q . How can I prevent Occupational Asthma ?
You can prevent occupational asthma by avoiding exposure to respiratory sensitisers. To achieve this you should follow these steps:
* try to get any respiratory sensitisers in your workplace removed or replaced with a safe alternative
* if this isn't possible, your employer can reduce the risk by installing extractor fans or
isolating you from the process that produces the risk – by putting dangerous chemicals in
a fume cupboard, for example. These steps can reduce the respiratory sensitisers you
breathe in
* if the above steps aren't possible, you should wear breathing equipment to stop you
inhaling the respiratory sensitiser.
Often a combination of all these steps will be needed.
Q . What can my employer do to help ?
Your employer has a legal duty to deal with respiratory sensitisers in the workplace.
This is set out in the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1994. Your employer should carry out a risk assessment and inform you if respiratory sensitisers are present. You should also be told how to recognise early signs of occupational asthma.
If you are working with respiratory sensitisers, it is often necessary to have regular
medical checks so the condition can be spotted early.
Your employer should consult you (either directly or through your union or employee representative) about the need to control respiratory sensitisers and triggers and the
steps they plan to take to do this.
Most employers will do what they can to help. If you don't think that they are doing
enough you can:
* raise the issue with the person responsible for health and safety in your workplace
* tell your manager about your concerns
* contact the local HSE office (or the local council environmental health department)
for advice on what to do next
Your colleagues also have a legal duty not to do things that endanger your health
(such as smoking near you). Remember that having a legal right doesn't always
mean you can enforce it. Be tactful and choose the right moment to raise the issue.
Q . What if I think I have Occupational Asthma ?
First of all, see your doctor straight away. If they suspect that you do have occupational
asthma, they should refer you to a specialist. If occupational asthma is confirmed,
your doctor should, with your consent, advise your employer to relocate you away
from the respiratory sensitiser.
Diagnosis of occupational asthma does not always mean you have to leave your job.
Talk to your employer and health and safety representative about other options
available to you. However, if you feel leaving work is the only option, you should
make a claim for compensation.
Q . How is occupational asthma diagnosed ?
Occupational asthma may be diagnosed:
* if your asthma is worse during the working week, though not necessarily at
work itself or your symptoms get worse after work, or you find your sleep is
disturbed during the night
* Your symptoms may improve when you have been away from work for
several days or on holiday
* If occupational asthma is suspected, you should be referred to a specialist.
Q . Can I get compensation if I develop occupational asthma ?
If you develop asthma because of your work you should:
* tell your GP that you think the asthma was caused by your work
* tell your manager or safety officer and ask to record it in the workplace accident book
* tell your union representative. If you belong to a union they may be able to get you compensation if your employer is at fault
* make a claim for Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit from the Benefits Agency.
The Benefits Agency pays between ?20 and ?100 a week to people who have asthma
that has been caused by certain respiratory sensitisers. There is a list of these in the
relevant Benefits Agency booklet (NI 237). If your respiratory sensitiser isn't on the
list, you can still claim as long as it is a 'known sensitiser'. A complete list of known
respiratory sensitisers is available from the HSE.
It is important to claim your benefit as soon as possible. Payments will probably only
start from the day you claim, not the day that you found out you had asthma. If you
want to take legal action against your employer, your lawyer must act within three
years of diagnosis.
Copyright 2005-2006 © Friends of Asthma. All rights rese
http://www.friendsofasthma.com
asthma because they are exposed to dangerous substances at work.
This is called occupational asthma.
750,000 people with asthma find that things
at work make their asthma worse.
In Ireland 80 to 100 people die from Asthma each year.
This section aims to help you understand what can cause asthma at
work, what you can do to prevent it, and what you can expect your
employer to do to help.
Occupational asthma - some substances at work can actually cause asthma.
This section includes information on occupational asthma, its causes, how to prevent it,
what employers need to do, how it is diagnosed and where you can go for more help.
People with asthma at work - offers advice about careers and avoiding triggers at
work for people who already have asthma.
The Workplace Charter is a list of recommendations to reduce the impact of asthma
in the workplace. .
Q . What is Occupational Asthma
Some substances that you might come across at work can actually cause asthma.
The condition can take weeks, months or even years to develop, depending on the person
and the substance.
If you think your asthma has been caused by something at work, look out for these clues:
* your asthma symptoms are worse during the working week, at work or after work
* your symptoms may get worse after work, or you may find your sleep is disturbed
during the night
* your symptoms improve when you have been away from work for several days
(for example when you are on holiday)
Q . Which substances cause
Occupational Asthma ?
Substances that can cause asthma are called respiratory sensitisers. Below is a list
of some of the main ones and the jobs where you are most likely to come across them.
* Chemicals called isocyanates are the most common cause of occupational asthma in the UK. There are many jobs in which you might be exposed to these chemicals, particularly spray painting, foam moulding using adhesives, and making foundry cores and surface coatings.
* Dust from flour and grain (pictured). Industrial baking, farm work and grain transport
* Wood dust, particularly from hard wood dusts and western red cedar. Carpentry, joinery
and sawmilling.
* Colophony – this is widely present in soldering fumes but also in glues and some floor
cleaners. Electronics industry
* Dust from latex rubber. Any job involving latex gloves, such as nursing or dentistry
* Dust from insects and animals, and from products containing them. Laboratory work, farm work or work with shellfish
There are over 200 other respiratory sensitisers and more are being identified all the time.
The Health & Safety Authority (HSA) publishes a list of the best known offenders.
The list is not exhaustive and will be updated regularly.
Q . How can I prevent Occupational Asthma ?
You can prevent occupational asthma by avoiding exposure to respiratory sensitisers. To achieve this you should follow these steps:
* try to get any respiratory sensitisers in your workplace removed or replaced with a safe alternative
* if this isn't possible, your employer can reduce the risk by installing extractor fans or
isolating you from the process that produces the risk – by putting dangerous chemicals in
a fume cupboard, for example. These steps can reduce the respiratory sensitisers you
breathe in
* if the above steps aren't possible, you should wear breathing equipment to stop you
inhaling the respiratory sensitiser.
Often a combination of all these steps will be needed.
Q . What can my employer do to help ?
Your employer has a legal duty to deal with respiratory sensitisers in the workplace.
This is set out in the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1994. Your employer should carry out a risk assessment and inform you if respiratory sensitisers are present. You should also be told how to recognise early signs of occupational asthma.
If you are working with respiratory sensitisers, it is often necessary to have regular
medical checks so the condition can be spotted early.
Your employer should consult you (either directly or through your union or employee representative) about the need to control respiratory sensitisers and triggers and the
steps they plan to take to do this.
Most employers will do what they can to help. If you don't think that they are doing
enough you can:
* raise the issue with the person responsible for health and safety in your workplace
* tell your manager about your concerns
* contact the local HSE office (or the local council environmental health department)
for advice on what to do next
Your colleagues also have a legal duty not to do things that endanger your health
(such as smoking near you). Remember that having a legal right doesn't always
mean you can enforce it. Be tactful and choose the right moment to raise the issue.
Q . What if I think I have Occupational Asthma ?
First of all, see your doctor straight away. If they suspect that you do have occupational
asthma, they should refer you to a specialist. If occupational asthma is confirmed,
your doctor should, with your consent, advise your employer to relocate you away
from the respiratory sensitiser.
Diagnosis of occupational asthma does not always mean you have to leave your job.
Talk to your employer and health and safety representative about other options
available to you. However, if you feel leaving work is the only option, you should
make a claim for compensation.
Q . How is occupational asthma diagnosed ?
Occupational asthma may be diagnosed:
* if your asthma is worse during the working week, though not necessarily at
work itself or your symptoms get worse after work, or you find your sleep is
disturbed during the night
* Your symptoms may improve when you have been away from work for
several days or on holiday
* If occupational asthma is suspected, you should be referred to a specialist.
Q . Can I get compensation if I develop occupational asthma ?
If you develop asthma because of your work you should:
* tell your GP that you think the asthma was caused by your work
* tell your manager or safety officer and ask to record it in the workplace accident book
* tell your union representative. If you belong to a union they may be able to get you compensation if your employer is at fault
* make a claim for Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit from the Benefits Agency.
The Benefits Agency pays between ?20 and ?100 a week to people who have asthma
that has been caused by certain respiratory sensitisers. There is a list of these in the
relevant Benefits Agency booklet (NI 237). If your respiratory sensitiser isn't on the
list, you can still claim as long as it is a 'known sensitiser'. A complete list of known
respiratory sensitisers is available from the HSE.
It is important to claim your benefit as soon as possible. Payments will probably only
start from the day you claim, not the day that you found out you had asthma. If you
want to take legal action against your employer, your lawyer must act within three
years of diagnosis.
Copyright 2005-2006 © Friends of Asthma. All rights rese
http://www.friendsofasthma.com
Pregnancy FAQs
Pregnancy FAQs
So many hormonal changes take place during pregnancy, that it is hardly surprising many women report changes in their asthma too. Here we answer some of your questions around pregnancy and nursing your baby, including labour, smoking,
diet, breast-feeding and asthma treatments.
Q . Will my asthma get worse during pregnancy?
A . Like pregnancy itself, asthma varies enormously from woman to woman. Around one third of women find their asthma symptoms improve in pregnancy, one third stay the same and one third find their asthma gets worse. If your asthma gets worse, you may need to increase your asthma medicines. .
Q . Can my asthma treatment harm my baby ?
A . No. Your baby will do best if you are breathing well and easily, so it is important that your asthma is well controlled.
Most asthma medicines are inhaled. These are entirely safe for your baby.
Q . Can I smoke during pregnancy?
A . If you want to give your baby the best start in life, neither you or your partner should smoke.
Women who smoke during pregnancy:
* Are more likely to have babies who have breathing problems, including asthma
* Are more likely to have a miscarriage
* Are more likely to go into premature labour
* Are more likely to have babies who are under weight
Q . Should I change my diet ?
A . During pregnancy it is important to have a healthy, balanced diet with plenty
of fruit and vegetables. This will help make sure that your baby gets all the nutrition
they need.
* There is no convincing evidence that avoiding any foods during pregnancy will help prevent your baby from developing asthma
* There is some research that suggests that allergy to peanuts may develop in the womb. Current government advice is that if anyone in the immediate family has an allergic condition such as asthma, hay fever and eczema, the mother should avoid eating peanuts and food containing peanut products during pregnancy and while breast-feeding.
Q . What if I have an asthma attack when
I am in labour ?
A . It is unusual for asthma to cause problems in labour. When you are in labour your body produces extra natural steroid hormones (cortisone and adrenaline), which help to prevent asthma attacks.
* If you do find yourself getting asthma symptoms during labour, use your reliever inhaler as normal. It will not harm the baby in any way
* Talk to your doctor or midwife beforehand about drawing up a birth plan. This will take your asthma into account and can help to reduce any fears you may have about giving birth
Q . What about other complications
during labour ?
A .There are a number of different ways to control pain during labour, including epidurals, all of which are safe for women with asthma. If you need to have an operation, it will not cause problems providing the anaesthetist knows that you have asthma.
Q .Should I be breast feeding my baby ?
A . Some, but not all, studies have shown that breast-feeding in the first few months of life may reduce the chance of your baby developing allergic conditions, including asthma. Breast-feeding also reduces the risk of babies developing intestinal illnesses and other infections.
Q .Will my asthma treatment interfere
with breast-feeding ?
A . Your inhaled asthma medicines will not affect your baby when you breast-feed. Usual doses of inhaled medicines do not enter the bloodstream, so they won't be found in breast milk.
The medicine in steroid tablets can sometimes be present in very small quantities in breast milk. However, there is too little to have any harmful effect on your baby
Medicines prescribed for asthma do not affect your ability to produce breast milk
Q .What if I don't breast-feed ?
A .If you decide to bottle-feed your baby you should talk to your doctor or practice nurse about the best milk formula to use.
Q .What food should I give my baby ?
A . Department of Health guidelines suggest that the possibility of developing food allergy is less likely if certain foods are introduced into a baby's diet later rather than sooner. The guidelines suggest that babies should be breast-fed or bottle-fed until they are at least four months old, and that other foods should be introduced as follows:
* At 4-6 months: vegetables, fruit other than citrus fruit, rice, meat, chicken and pulses (eg lentils)
* At 6-12 months: foods containing wheat (eg pasta, bread, biscuits), fish, eggs, yoghurt, cheese and citrus fruit
* Over 12 months: ordinary cows' milk
If members of the family have allergies, peanuts and foods containing peanuts should ideally not be included in the diet until a child is three years old.
Copyright 2005-2006 © Friends of Asthma. All rights reserved.
So many hormonal changes take place during pregnancy, that it is hardly surprising many women report changes in their asthma too. Here we answer some of your questions around pregnancy and nursing your baby, including labour, smoking,
diet, breast-feeding and asthma treatments.
Q . Will my asthma get worse during pregnancy?
A . Like pregnancy itself, asthma varies enormously from woman to woman. Around one third of women find their asthma symptoms improve in pregnancy, one third stay the same and one third find their asthma gets worse. If your asthma gets worse, you may need to increase your asthma medicines. .
Q . Can my asthma treatment harm my baby ?
A . No. Your baby will do best if you are breathing well and easily, so it is important that your asthma is well controlled.
Most asthma medicines are inhaled. These are entirely safe for your baby.
Q . Can I smoke during pregnancy?
A . If you want to give your baby the best start in life, neither you or your partner should smoke.
Women who smoke during pregnancy:
* Are more likely to have babies who have breathing problems, including asthma
* Are more likely to have a miscarriage
* Are more likely to go into premature labour
* Are more likely to have babies who are under weight
Q . Should I change my diet ?
A . During pregnancy it is important to have a healthy, balanced diet with plenty
of fruit and vegetables. This will help make sure that your baby gets all the nutrition
they need.
* There is no convincing evidence that avoiding any foods during pregnancy will help prevent your baby from developing asthma
* There is some research that suggests that allergy to peanuts may develop in the womb. Current government advice is that if anyone in the immediate family has an allergic condition such as asthma, hay fever and eczema, the mother should avoid eating peanuts and food containing peanut products during pregnancy and while breast-feeding.
Q . What if I have an asthma attack when
I am in labour ?
A . It is unusual for asthma to cause problems in labour. When you are in labour your body produces extra natural steroid hormones (cortisone and adrenaline), which help to prevent asthma attacks.
* If you do find yourself getting asthma symptoms during labour, use your reliever inhaler as normal. It will not harm the baby in any way
* Talk to your doctor or midwife beforehand about drawing up a birth plan. This will take your asthma into account and can help to reduce any fears you may have about giving birth
Q . What about other complications
during labour ?
A .There are a number of different ways to control pain during labour, including epidurals, all of which are safe for women with asthma. If you need to have an operation, it will not cause problems providing the anaesthetist knows that you have asthma.
Q .Should I be breast feeding my baby ?
A . Some, but not all, studies have shown that breast-feeding in the first few months of life may reduce the chance of your baby developing allergic conditions, including asthma. Breast-feeding also reduces the risk of babies developing intestinal illnesses and other infections.
Q .Will my asthma treatment interfere
with breast-feeding ?
A . Your inhaled asthma medicines will not affect your baby when you breast-feed. Usual doses of inhaled medicines do not enter the bloodstream, so they won't be found in breast milk.
The medicine in steroid tablets can sometimes be present in very small quantities in breast milk. However, there is too little to have any harmful effect on your baby
Medicines prescribed for asthma do not affect your ability to produce breast milk
Q .What if I don't breast-feed ?
A .If you decide to bottle-feed your baby you should talk to your doctor or practice nurse about the best milk formula to use.
Q .What food should I give my baby ?
A . Department of Health guidelines suggest that the possibility of developing food allergy is less likely if certain foods are introduced into a baby's diet later rather than sooner. The guidelines suggest that babies should be breast-fed or bottle-fed until they are at least four months old, and that other foods should be introduced as follows:
* At 4-6 months: vegetables, fruit other than citrus fruit, rice, meat, chicken and pulses (eg lentils)
* At 6-12 months: foods containing wheat (eg pasta, bread, biscuits), fish, eggs, yoghurt, cheese and citrus fruit
* Over 12 months: ordinary cows' milk
If members of the family have allergies, peanuts and foods containing peanuts should ideally not be included in the diet until a child is three years old.
Copyright 2005-2006 © Friends of Asthma. All rights reserved.
Asthma & women
Asthma & women
As a woman your body will go through changes that can affect your asthma. Here we answer questions about puberty, menstruation, the pill, menopause, osteoporosis and HRT.
Puberty
Hormonal changes can affect asthma in adolescent girls. Some girls find their asthma is worse around the time their periods start for the first time. However, other factors such as the pressures of starting a new school and emotional stress need to be taken into account as well.
Their symptoms usually settle down once their menstrual cycle becomes established. However, some women continue to find that their asthma gets worse before their period.
Menstrual cycle
Could my periods affect my asthma?
If you have noticed that your asthma is harder to control at certain times of the month, you are not alone. Studies have shown that around one third of women think their symptoms are worse just before or during menstruation. This link seems to be stronger in women with severe asthma.
What can I do?
* Keep a peak flow diary to help you see if your periods are affecting your asthma.
* If, over a few months, you notice your asthma consistently gets worse before your period, go to see your doctor or asthma nurse. They may advise you take extra preventer medicine during the week before your period.
* Some women who experience very severe asthma attacks before their period may benefit from progesterone hormone therapy given either as a tablet or by injection. Your doctor or asthma nurse will be able to advise if this is appropriate for you.
* Aspirin and other medicines (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory tablets, eg Nurofen, ibuprofen and Ponstan) used for period pain may induce an asthma attack in a small number of people. Paracetemol is usually safe. If you take regular medicines for period pain check with your doctor or asthma nurse.
Will taking the pill affect my asthma
No. Your asthma treatment is just as effective when you are taking the pill. As with all women taking the pill, it is best if you do not smoke and have your blood pressure checked regularly.
Menopause
Menopause is a natural process. It marks the point at which the balance of hormones in a woman's body changes. You may find that, as at other times of hormonal fluctuation, your asthma becomes troublesome. It is important to keep an eye on your asthma at such times and discuss any problems you have with your doctor or asthma nurse specialist.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis – or brittle bones – is one of the major health concerns for older women. This bone-thinning disease affects one in three women after they reach the menopause.
However, for some women with asthma, the chances of suffering from osteoporosis are slightly higher than average. Studies have shown that taking steroid tablets continually or high doses of inhaled steroids (preventer inhalers) for a number of years may increase the risk of osteoporosis.
How can I prevent osteoporosis?
Here are steps you can take to make sure your bones stay healthy:
* Make sure your diet contains plenty of calcium-rich foods such as yoghurts, cheese, bread and milk. Other foods containing calcium include tinned fish with bones, tofu and green leafy vegetables.
* Take regular weight-bearing exercise at least three times a week, such as walking, dancing, light weight-training or running.
* Stop smoking. Smoking can bring on a premature menopause. Smokers are also more at risk of fractures as their bone mineral density is lower than non-smokers.
* Drink only moderate amounts of alcohol
You can reduce this risk of side effects from the steroids in preventer medicines by:
* Using a spacer to take your preventer.
* Rinsing your mouth and brushing your teeth after taking your steroid inhaler
Will the steroids I take for my asthma make me put on weight?
Steroid treatment is an essential part of asthma management. For most people, a regular dose of a steroid inhaler is all that is needed to keep their asthma under control. This contains a very low dose of steroid and it won't make you put on weight.
Steroid tablets are sometimes prescribed if your asthma gets more severe. They contain a higher dose of steroid than your inhaler. Steroid tablets themselves won't make you put on weight. However, they can make you feel hungry and, of course, if you eat more than usual you'll start to put on the pounds. Stick to your usual eating habits, take regular exercise, and you should be fine.
Copyright 2005-2006 © Friends of Asthma. All rights res
As a woman your body will go through changes that can affect your asthma. Here we answer questions about puberty, menstruation, the pill, menopause, osteoporosis and HRT.
Puberty
Hormonal changes can affect asthma in adolescent girls. Some girls find their asthma is worse around the time their periods start for the first time. However, other factors such as the pressures of starting a new school and emotional stress need to be taken into account as well.
Their symptoms usually settle down once their menstrual cycle becomes established. However, some women continue to find that their asthma gets worse before their period.
Menstrual cycle
Could my periods affect my asthma?
If you have noticed that your asthma is harder to control at certain times of the month, you are not alone. Studies have shown that around one third of women think their symptoms are worse just before or during menstruation. This link seems to be stronger in women with severe asthma.
What can I do?
* Keep a peak flow diary to help you see if your periods are affecting your asthma.
* If, over a few months, you notice your asthma consistently gets worse before your period, go to see your doctor or asthma nurse. They may advise you take extra preventer medicine during the week before your period.
* Some women who experience very severe asthma attacks before their period may benefit from progesterone hormone therapy given either as a tablet or by injection. Your doctor or asthma nurse will be able to advise if this is appropriate for you.
* Aspirin and other medicines (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory tablets, eg Nurofen, ibuprofen and Ponstan) used for period pain may induce an asthma attack in a small number of people. Paracetemol is usually safe. If you take regular medicines for period pain check with your doctor or asthma nurse.
Will taking the pill affect my asthma
No. Your asthma treatment is just as effective when you are taking the pill. As with all women taking the pill, it is best if you do not smoke and have your blood pressure checked regularly.
Menopause
Menopause is a natural process. It marks the point at which the balance of hormones in a woman's body changes. You may find that, as at other times of hormonal fluctuation, your asthma becomes troublesome. It is important to keep an eye on your asthma at such times and discuss any problems you have with your doctor or asthma nurse specialist.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis – or brittle bones – is one of the major health concerns for older women. This bone-thinning disease affects one in three women after they reach the menopause.
However, for some women with asthma, the chances of suffering from osteoporosis are slightly higher than average. Studies have shown that taking steroid tablets continually or high doses of inhaled steroids (preventer inhalers) for a number of years may increase the risk of osteoporosis.
How can I prevent osteoporosis?
Here are steps you can take to make sure your bones stay healthy:
* Make sure your diet contains plenty of calcium-rich foods such as yoghurts, cheese, bread and milk. Other foods containing calcium include tinned fish with bones, tofu and green leafy vegetables.
* Take regular weight-bearing exercise at least three times a week, such as walking, dancing, light weight-training or running.
* Stop smoking. Smoking can bring on a premature menopause. Smokers are also more at risk of fractures as their bone mineral density is lower than non-smokers.
* Drink only moderate amounts of alcohol
You can reduce this risk of side effects from the steroids in preventer medicines by:
* Using a spacer to take your preventer.
* Rinsing your mouth and brushing your teeth after taking your steroid inhaler
Will the steroids I take for my asthma make me put on weight?
Steroid treatment is an essential part of asthma management. For most people, a regular dose of a steroid inhaler is all that is needed to keep their asthma under control. This contains a very low dose of steroid and it won't make you put on weight.
Steroid tablets are sometimes prescribed if your asthma gets more severe. They contain a higher dose of steroid than your inhaler. Steroid tablets themselves won't make you put on weight. However, they can make you feel hungry and, of course, if you eat more than usual you'll start to put on the pounds. Stick to your usual eating habits, take regular exercise, and you should be fine.
Copyright 2005-2006 © Friends of Asthma. All rights res
For parents: your child has asthma
For parents: your child has asthma
So, your child has asthma?
You're not alone .
But don't worry.
With a little help there's no reason why your child can't take control of their symptoms and continue to lead a full and active life.
In this section you can find out more about medicines and treatments, how to manage your child's symptoms - and lots more.
The rest of this website provides further information about triggers, tools to help you and your child, healthy lifestyles that can be beneficial for people with asthma .
Asthma and your child
Diagnosing asthma
Diagnosing asthma in very young children can be difficult because:
* At least one child in seven will have 'wheezing' at some point during their first five years. Many of these children will not go on to have asthma in later childhood, so your doctor may not want to use the term 'asthma' at this stage.
* It is not easy to measure how well a young child's lungs are working. A peak flow meter is used for older children, but is unsuitable and unreliable for younger children (usually those under the age of six).
The pattern of symptoms that develops over time shows whether a child has asthma. Your doctor may ask you to keep a record of your child's symptoms and when they happen. This will help the doctor get to the bottom of your child's breathing problems
Children under two.
* If your child is under the age of two, it is even more difficult to tell if they have asthma. There are a number of different wheezing illnesses, including acute bronchiolitis, 'wheezy bronchitis', as well as asthma, which can make your baby wheezy.
Will my child grow out of asthma?
Some children with asthma lose their symptoms by the time they are adults and others may find that their symptoms become milder. However recent research has shown that the underlying condition does not go away and it is possible that symptoms may return in later life.
Teenagers
Throughout childhood, asthma is generally more common in boys than in girls. This trend reverses during puberty when more girls develop asthma for the first time. By the age of 18 years, asthma is more common in girls than boys.
Copyright 2005-2006 © Friends of Asthma. All rights reserve
So, your child has asthma?
You're not alone .
But don't worry.
With a little help there's no reason why your child can't take control of their symptoms and continue to lead a full and active life.
In this section you can find out more about medicines and treatments, how to manage your child's symptoms - and lots more.
The rest of this website provides further information about triggers, tools to help you and your child, healthy lifestyles that can be beneficial for people with asthma .
Asthma and your child
Diagnosing asthma
Diagnosing asthma in very young children can be difficult because:
* At least one child in seven will have 'wheezing' at some point during their first five years. Many of these children will not go on to have asthma in later childhood, so your doctor may not want to use the term 'asthma' at this stage.
* It is not easy to measure how well a young child's lungs are working. A peak flow meter is used for older children, but is unsuitable and unreliable for younger children (usually those under the age of six).
The pattern of symptoms that develops over time shows whether a child has asthma. Your doctor may ask you to keep a record of your child's symptoms and when they happen. This will help the doctor get to the bottom of your child's breathing problems
Children under two.
* If your child is under the age of two, it is even more difficult to tell if they have asthma. There are a number of different wheezing illnesses, including acute bronchiolitis, 'wheezy bronchitis', as well as asthma, which can make your baby wheezy.
Will my child grow out of asthma?
Some children with asthma lose their symptoms by the time they are adults and others may find that their symptoms become milder. However recent research has shown that the underlying condition does not go away and it is possible that symptoms may return in later life.
Teenagers
Throughout childhood, asthma is generally more common in boys than in girls. This trend reverses during puberty when more girls develop asthma for the first time. By the age of 18 years, asthma is more common in girls than boys.
Copyright 2005-2006 © Friends of Asthma. All rights reserve
What to do in an Asthma Attack
What to do in an asthma attack
Sometimes, no matter how careful you are about taking your asthma medicines and avoiding your triggers, you may find that you have an asthma attack.
Recommended steps
The following guidelines are suitable for both children and adults and are the recommended steps to follow in an asthma attack
1. Take your reliever inhaler (usually blue), immediately
2. Sit down and ensure that any tight clothing is loosened. Do not lie down
3. If no immediate improvement during an attack, continue to take one puff of your reliever inhaler every minute for five minutes or until symptoms improve
4. If your symptoms do not improve in five minutes – or you are in doubt – call 999 or a doctor urgently
5. Continue to take one puff of your reliever inhaler every minute until help arrives
You are having an asthma attack if any of the following happen:
* Your reliever does not help symptoms
* Your symptoms are getting worse (cough, breathlessness, wheeze or tight chest)
* You are too breathless to speak, eat or sleep
Do not be afraid of causing a fuss, even at night. If you are admitted to hospital or an accident and emergency department because of your asthma, take details of your medicines with you.
After an emergency asthma attack:
* Make an appointment with your doctor or asthma nurse for an asthma review, within 48 hours of your attack
* You will also need another review within one or two weeks after your asthma attack to make sure your symptoms are better controlled
Do not ignore worsening symptoms
Most people find that asthma attacks are the result of gradual worsening of symptoms over a few days.
If your asthma symptoms are getting worse do not ignore them! Follow your personal asthma action plan. If symptoms continue to get worse make an urgent appointment to see your doctor or asthma nurse. Quite often, using your reliever is all that is needed to relieve your asthma symptoms when you start to have an asthma attack. At other times, symptoms are more severe and more urgent action is needed.
Copyright 2005-2006 © Friends of Asthma. All rights reserved.
Sometimes, no matter how careful you are about taking your asthma medicines and avoiding your triggers, you may find that you have an asthma attack.
Recommended steps
The following guidelines are suitable for both children and adults and are the recommended steps to follow in an asthma attack
1. Take your reliever inhaler (usually blue), immediately
2. Sit down and ensure that any tight clothing is loosened. Do not lie down
3. If no immediate improvement during an attack, continue to take one puff of your reliever inhaler every minute for five minutes or until symptoms improve
4. If your symptoms do not improve in five minutes – or you are in doubt – call 999 or a doctor urgently
5. Continue to take one puff of your reliever inhaler every minute until help arrives
You are having an asthma attack if any of the following happen:
* Your reliever does not help symptoms
* Your symptoms are getting worse (cough, breathlessness, wheeze or tight chest)
* You are too breathless to speak, eat or sleep
Do not be afraid of causing a fuss, even at night. If you are admitted to hospital or an accident and emergency department because of your asthma, take details of your medicines with you.
After an emergency asthma attack:
* Make an appointment with your doctor or asthma nurse for an asthma review, within 48 hours of your attack
* You will also need another review within one or two weeks after your asthma attack to make sure your symptoms are better controlled
Do not ignore worsening symptoms
Most people find that asthma attacks are the result of gradual worsening of symptoms over a few days.
If your asthma symptoms are getting worse do not ignore them! Follow your personal asthma action plan. If symptoms continue to get worse make an urgent appointment to see your doctor or asthma nurse. Quite often, using your reliever is all that is needed to relieve your asthma symptoms when you start to have an asthma attack. At other times, symptoms are more severe and more urgent action is needed.
Copyright 2005-2006 © Friends of Asthma. All rights reserved.
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