Asthma, a condition that constricts the airways carrying air into the lungs, can not only make it hard to breathe but can often lead to wheezing, chest tightness, breathlessness, and coughing. The Covid pandemic has only worsened the situation for asthma patients as they are much more susceptible to contracting the virus, and Covid symptoms can be amplified considerably more.
According to experts, respiratory viruses can cause and worsen bronchial asthma signs, and if someone has uncontrolled bronchial asthma, they may expand or face extreme Covid signs. "out of control bronchial asthma can imply that there will already be irritation within the lungs and airways may be compromised so in many instances Covid may also even cause pneumonia, fibrosis (thick and stiff lung walls) or different severe breathing diseases," mentioned Dr Sandeep Nayar, senior director and HOD, chest and breathing diseases, BLK-MAX first-rate Speciality sanatorium.
Sharing on the way to tackle an assault, specially if the patient isn't positive if it's miles because of asthma or Covid, Dr Nayar said, "The foremost signs visible these days in Covid high-quality sufferers are breathlessness in preference to fever or sore throat, headache, cough and so forth. In this type of scenario, it is best to apply the inhaler so the allergies assault can be managed. within the case of bronchial asthma patients having contracted Covid, inhalers and bronchodilators, in addition to other medicines, have to be endured as consistent with schedule. Nebulisers are once more very useful in coping with Covid-triggered bronchospasms. bronchial asthma patients can without problems use nebulisation, without or with steroids, to assist alleviate chest congestions and pressure."
Also stressing the need for vaccination, Dr Nayar said, "All asthma patients above 18 years of age must get vaccinated to prevent the deadly implications of the virus even if they get infected. Vaccination will not just help in protecting from the virus but will also help reduce the severity of the symptoms. However, those having had an immediate or severe allergic reaction to the vaccine or any of its ingredients must consult their physician."
*If you've recently recovered from an acute Covid infection, delay getting the vaccine until you're fully recovered and done with self-isolation and quarantine measures. Also, if you had the infection after receiving the first dose of vaccine, then wait at least one month after recovery before getting the other dose.
*If, along with asthma, you also have other conditions causing immune deficiency like HIV or cancers, consult your doctor before getting the vaccine
*Do not step out of the home. If unavoidable, wear a double mask while going out
*Quit smoking as it can be very dangerous for patients with asthma or other respiratory illnesses
*Avoid outdoor exercises, focus on breathing exercises, and doing yoga indoors.
*Take prescribed medicines and inhalers. Keep necessary medicines stocked up.
*Eat a healthy diet rich in nutrients and proteins. Avoid eating out and foods rich in oil.