STELLA T
Health experts have urged asthma patients to take proactive control of their condition by creating an updated Asthma Action Plan, mastering inhaler techniques, and avoiding known triggers.
This call was made today by the Rukungiri District Health Educator, Alban Natukunda, during an exclusive interview with our reporter.
He said asthma is a chronic, non-communicable disease that causes inflammation and narrowing of the small airways in the lungs, leading to recurring symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.
Aliban said asthma is caused by indoor allergens such as dust mites, mold, and pet dander or fur; outdoor allergens such as pollen and mold; emotional stress; physical activity; and a combination of genetic factors, including a family history of allergies, as well as environmental exposures such as tobacco smoke, air pollution, and early childhood respiratory infections.
He noted the importance of regular medication adherence, including the use of preventers, carrying rescue inhalers, getting annual vaccinations, and avoiding smoking, especially as seasons change or during high-pollution periods.
He called on asthma patients to prioritize regular review and management, saying an annual check-up is critical, and to practice proactive trigger management by identifying allergy-causing substances in the home, monitoring pollen and weather changes, and taking precautions against respiratory infections.
He urged patients to maintain consistent medication use by taking preventer medication regularly rather than relying only on quick-relief inhalers.
Aliban emphasized the need to stop smoking and engage in regular exercise to improve lung function. He also advised that asthma patients should not sleep alone in the house so that in case of an attack, someone is available to help.
