The CDC (Center for Disease Control) lists asthma as the most common respiratory condition in children. As of 2011, this condition affects 7.1 million children, 34 million Americans total. Treatment is not geared toward a cure but management and reduction of asthma attacks: inflammation and constriction of the airway causing difficulty to take in a quality breath.
Asthma is presented by 'attacks'. These attacks are a combination of exaggerated bodily functions that are specific to the trachea, bronchial tubes and lungs causing inflammation and constriction of the airways. This inflammation and constriction decreases the elasticity of the lungs and breathing passages causing the affected person to feel as if they are trying to breath through a pin hole. With each breath air is brought in through a narrowed airway which causes a wheezing sound, shoulder lifting with each breath due to the use of accessory muscle and anxiety because the oxygen that is inhaled does not equal to amount of carbon dioxide exhaled.
Attacks are brought about by irritants/allergens such as pollens, perfumes, dust and even certain foods. Testing to determine allergies and sensitivities is the first step toward treatment. Then, medication to decrease the body's response to irritants (antihistamines), keep airway open (inhaler) and manage attacks that occur despite maintenance medication (rescue inhalers).
Now with the popularity and usefulness of informative online websites and mobile apps, asthma can be more easily managed. The following lists may help.
Websites
- http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/about/naep
- http://airnow.gov/index.cfm?action=aqikids.index (air quality index for kids)
- http://www.nationaljewish.org/healthinfo/pediatric/asthma/asthma-wizard/
- http://www.asthmakids.ca/
For review of asthma management mobile apps go to http://www.imedicalapps.com
