Respiratory and Pulmonary

DON'T PANIC! Dr. Shital Raval tells you the early signs of an asthma attack to watch out for and what you should do during an asthma attack. Watch out for the signs of an Asthma Attack Shortness of breath such that you are unable to eat, speak or sleep. Worsening cough, wheezing and tightness of chest. Symptoms usually worsen over a period of few days. Keep a watch out for gradual increase in inhaler use. Increase in breathlessness. Children may experience stomach ache. Inhaler is not…

Anjali Sen, 78  has had Asthma almost all her life and she recounts how she has grappled with this chronic and nagging affliction. She is a homemaker, an avid reader, a cricket enthusiast and lives in Kolkata. Can you explain your condition in a few words? The attack starts as a slight breathlessness and quickly develops into panting, gasping and choking. I have to admit that I have not had any severe asthmatic attack for the last 12 to 15 years as I am now able to…

Tai Chi, the ancient martial art from China, may be widely known as a self-defense art, but has abundant health benefits that can help cure ordinary ailments to life threatening diseases, says Tai Chi guru Carlton Hill.  What is Tai Chi? How is it different from other martial arts? Tai Chi Chuan or Taijiquan is a five thousand year old martial art practised in China. Though, in present times, it is mostly practised for its health benefits. Tai Chi Chuan is unique because one can…

As the temperature plummets, asthma attacks and pneumonia cases rise. Family practitioner and paediatrician Dr Gita Mathai tells you why this is so and how to protect yourself.  Asthma What is asthma? Asthma refers to a condition that causes shortness of breath with a whistling sound from the chest. It is also called "reactive airway disease".  What causes asthma symptoms? The whistling sound is caused by the narrowing of the tubes through which the air passes…

Dr Shital Raval tells you 5 tips how to heal lungs and improve lung function, especially if they are weakened by smoking. But first, quit smoking. Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease or COPD. Patients with COPD have impaired lung function, and one of the first things that you have to do to improve lung function is to quit smoking. A recent study by the Glasglow University stated that quitting can better lung function test scores by…

It is important to manage COPD if you do not want the complications to set in. The possible complications are: Heart failure Respiratory failure Food and nutrition  Drink plenty of fluids. You should drink at least 6 to 8 -ounce glasses of non-caffeinated beverages each day to keep mucus thin and easier to cough up. Limit caffeine (contained in coffee, tea, several carbonated beverages such as cola, and chocolate) as it might interfere with some of your medicines. Control sodium (salt)…

There is no known cure for COPD, but the symptoms are treatable and its progression can be delayed.  For smokers, quitting smoking is a key priority.  Supplemental oxygen, which can be supplied to the patient through masks and cylinders. This supplemental oxygen enables normal body functions in patients with COPD.  Talk to your doctor about taking an influenza vaccination every year and a pneumococcal vaccination once every five years.  If possible, reduce your exposure to…

There are three types of COPD: 1. Emphysema: This is a common type of COPD in which the air sacs of the lungs become damaged, causing them to enlarge and burst. This makes it difficult for people to expel air from their lungs. 2. Chronic Bronchitis: This causes inflammation and irritation of the airways. When the air tubes are inflamed and irritated, thick mucus begins to form in them. Over time, this mucus plugs up the airways and makes breathing difficult. 3. Bronchiectasis: This is…

The most common symptoms of COPD are: Sputum production Shortness of breath. Patients often say, "My breathing requires effort", "I feel out of breath" or "I can't get enough air in”. Typically the shortness of breath is worse on exertion, of a prolonged duration, and worsens over time. Many people with more advanced COPD breathe through pursed lips and this action can improve shortness of breath in some. Cough with mucus (known as a productive cough). A chronic cough is usually the first…

Can COPD be prevented Most cases of COPD are potentially preventable. The best ways to prevent COPD is  to stop smoking and reduce your exposure to second-hand smoke and air pollution.  Those with COPD are recommended annual flu and influenza vaccinations to reduce exacerbations and hospitalisation.  Here's how you can improve lung function after you quit smoking:  http://www.patientsengage.com/conditions/improving-lung-function-after-you-quit-smoking