Is Outdoor Air Pollution Worsening My Asthma? - PowerPoint PPT Presentation
Title:
Is Outdoor Air Pollution Worsening My Asthma?
Description:
Research evidence shows that air pollution may act as a trigger for increased severity of Asthma Symptoms. Read on to learn how to manage Asthma Triggered by Pollution. – PowerPoint PPT presentation
Number of Views:3
Title: Is Outdoor Air Pollution Worsening My Asthma?
1
Is Outdoor Air Pollution Worsening My Asthma?
- Research shows that air pollution can intensify
existing asthma, and people who live in areas
with higher levels of air pollution are likely to
develop asthma symptoms. Asthma is a chronic
lung disease that makes breathing difficult. Its
symptoms include coughing, wheezing, and
shortness of breath. Pollution tends to both -
trigger existing asthma symptoms and make them
severe. - Air Pollution and Asthma
- Evidence suggests that respiratory disorders like
bronchial asthma have become widespread in
recent years. High levels of air pollution can
cause health complications like cardiovascular
and respiratory disorders, strain on the heart
and lungs, and damaged lung cells. - At very high concentrations, air pollution can
irritate the airways of the lungs, which can
result in breathing difficulties even in people
who do not suffer from asthma. It can also cause
other conditions like coughing, chest
discomfort, and burning sensation in the lungs.
Lower concentrations of air pollution can still
cause complications for people with asthma. - Long-term exposure to pollution can affect your
airway, stoke existing irritation, and result in
loss of lung capacity. It may also lead to
deteriorated lung function. Some pollution
particles are small enough to enter right into
your lungs and trigger asthma symptoms. Prolonged
exposure to pollution may also lead to a type of
lung hypersensitivity that can give rise to acute
asthma. - How to Manage Asthma Triggered by Air Pollution
- Plan exercise and activities where pollution
levels are lower - Studies show that the advantage of frequent
exercise outweighs the risks linked with
exposure to pollution. By adjusting when and
where you exercise, you can lead a healthy
lifestyle and help reduce your exposure to
polluted air. In the summers, schedule your most
vigorous activities for the morning. Its best to
exercise away from busy roads, and industrial
areas. On smoggy and hot days, when ozone levels
are higher, consider options for exercising
indoors. - Change your activity level and consider
exercising indoors - Alter your routine with occasional indoor
activities, especially on days that show poor
air quality. When the air is polluted, try to
exercise indoors instead of any outdoor
activities as this will reduce the amount of
polluted air you inhale. Air pollution levels
tend to be highest around midday or in the
afternoon, try to avoid being outdoors during
these times. Even if you cant change your
schedule, you might be able to change your
activity, to make it less intense, or, spend less
time on the activity. For example, go for a walk
instead of a jog, exercise for 20 minutes instead
of 30.
2
- Keep your quick-relief medication at hand when
outdoors - The air may appear clear, but that doesnt mean
its pollution-free. By keeping medication
handy, even if you do have symptoms, you are
likely prepared. This is crucial if you have a
respiratory disorder and are starting a new
activity that is more intense. - Monitor air pollution levels
- This can be done if you have any kind of
respiratory disorder. Set up your weather app to
provide you with air pollution alerts. Several
websites also provide information about air
quality from credible sources. Check local air
quality forecasts over the radio, and news
stations. - Consult your doctor
- Contact your doctor for medical help if you have
intense asthma symptoms when the air is
polluted. Make note of your asthma triggers. If
you plan on exercising more than usual, discuss
this with your doctor, and ask whether you should
use medication before you start.
Recommended
CrystalGraphics Presentations
