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Journalism of Courage
Winter is the season of discomfort for asthma patients. Pollution levels go up and the cold and dry air make it difficult to breathe. 8220;When a person inhales a blast of cold and dry air, the airways go into bronchospasm8212;they contract and become narrow,8221; says Dr A K Aggarwal, internal medicine, Apollo Hospitals. The result is more bouts of wheezing and more allergic reactions. But this disease can be managed. For starters, go to your doctor and check what your triggers are and keep these points in mind:
What to eat and drink
Apple juice: The presence of phytochemicals in apples8212;flavanoids and phenolic acid8212;helps prevent asthma attacks. 8220;These chemicals calm the inflammation of airways which causes both wheezing and asthma,8221; says Dr V K Aneja, internal medicine, Apollo Hospitals.
Avoid peanuts: How and why peanuts trigger asthma attacks are still unknown but doctors say it8217;s best to keep off them in winter. 8220;Many studies have revealed that peanuts can lead to an asthma attack. So, it8217;s best for people suffering from asthma to avoid munching on them this winter,8221; says Dr Indira Reddy, internal medicine, Apollo Hospitals. Also, avoid food products containing peanuts such as soy products, peanut butter and salad dressings.
Vitamins and antioxidants: Research has shown that a diet rich in vitamin E and C, beta-carotene and omega-3 fatty acids can prevent an asthma attack. A 2007 study showed that children who grew up eating fruits like grapes, apples and vegetables like tomatoes were less likely to have asthma-like symptoms. 8220;All these foods are rich in vitamins and contain antioxidants. Those who don8217;t eat a sufficient amount of such foods have poor lung function,8221; says Dr Sakshi Chawla, senior dietician, Fortis, Noida.
Wrap up the carpets: Dust mites are the most common triggers for an asthma attack and other respiratory problems and carpets have millions of them. 8220;It8217;s not easy to vacuum them daily so it8217;s best that people suffering from asthma avoid carpets,8221; advises Dr Aggarwal. Also, air out your mattresses, avoid keeping soft toys on or close to the bed, says Dr Chawla.nbsp;
Furry triggers: Dog and cat hair can also trigger an asthma attack. While it may not be possible for you to give your pet away, take precautions. 8220;Make sure your pet doesn8217;t sleep in your room. Get someone who is not allergic to brush their fur twice a day. That will ensure that they shed less fur,8221; says Dr A K Bali, senior consultant, internal medicine, Moolchand Medcity. nbsp;
Clean up: An unclean kitchen or bathroom will become home to cockroaches and other insects. 8220;Exposure to roaches can lead to an attack. Body parts of and excrement of the insect are of the right size to be lifted into the air. They easily enter the bronchial tubes and trigger an allergic reaction,8221; says Dr Aneja.
Work out the workout
Go easy: Strenuous physical activity often brings on attacks. Don8217;t stop exercising completely but do tone it down. Be sure to warm up before a workout and do stretching exercises later. 8220;Work out for 10 minutes, then take a five-minute break. Repeat it for as long as you feel comfortable. Don8217;t overdo it,8221; says Dr Bali. Light yoga exercises are also suitable.
Drink lots of fluids: It is essential to drink plenty of fluids before and after your workout. 8220;While exercising, your airways may dry up leading to an attack. This can be prevented by drinking lots of water before and during your workout,8221; says Dr Reddy. You could also drink juice after every workout.
Exercise indoors: Since the cold dry winter air can make breathing difficult for asthmatics, it is advisable they exercise in a well-heated room. 8220;When you inhale cold air, your airways respond by contracting. This may cause shortness of breath, coughing and wheezing,8221; says Dr Aneja.
