Asthma

What is Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic lung condition that is characterized by episodes or attacks of difficult breathing. This is caused by the swelling of airways which makes it hard for air to move in and out. Asthma cannot be cured but it can be controlled. More women than men suffer from asthma.

What are the symptoms of Asthma?

• Wheezing and coughing
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness

What triggers Asthma?

• Allergy causing items such as pet dander, dust, pollen and mold
• Irritants in the air such as pollution, smoke, perfume and fumes
• Infections or stress

How is it treated?

• Reduce exposure to the item which is triggering the asthma attacks
• Medications are prescribed which has two forms:
  • Daily to control regular symptoms
  • Rescue medication often referred to as an "inhaler" to use during attack
• Constant monitoring of lung condition and function
• Education of patients and their families
• Regular visits to a doctor

If you have asthma, it is important to get it under control before you get pregnant. When asthma is controlled, women have no more complications during pregnancy and while giving birth than non–asthmatic women.

Uncontrolled Asthma has the following effects on a pregnancy:

• Interferes with oxygen supply to the baby
• Can result in premature birth, low birth weight and blood pressure problems
• Poor breathing patterns which can have a direct effect on the health of mom and baby