Conditions

What tests do you need to have done Medical history and physical examination: The doctor will ask about your family history of asthma and allergy. He will listen to your breathing and look for signs of asthma or allergies. The signs include wheezing, a runny nose or swollen nasal passages, and allergic skin conditions (such as eczema). He may recommend some of the following diagnostic tests: Lung Function test: One example is Spirometry test. In this test, you will take a deep breath and blow…

Types of asthma  Allergic asthma: Allergies can make asthma symptoms worse. So it is best to avoid the things you are allergic to.  Asthma without allergies: Sometimes asthma can be triggered without allergens. For instance, an upper respiratory infection, such as cold and flu, can set off the asthma. Exercise induced asthma: Some otherwise healthy people can develop asthma symptoms only when exercising. Any type of physical exertion or sports leads to coughing, difficulty breathing…

Symptoms include the following: Wheezing: There is a scratchy or whistling sound when you breathe Coughing: Coughing is worse at night or early in the morning, making it hard to sleep Chest tightness or pain: You feel like something is squeezing or sitting on your chest Shortness of breath: This may feel like you can't get air out of your lungs Children may also exhibit the following: Fatigue (your child may slow down or stop playing) Problems feeding or grunting during feeding (infants)…

Are you at risk of developing asthma Are you: Prone to developing allergies (known as Atopy). This is an inherited tendency. Have parents with asthma Had respiratory infections during childhood Exposed to airborne allergens or to viral infections during your chidhood when your immune system was developing Exposed to chemical irritants, industrial dust or pollutants in your workplace What causes or triggers an asthma attack These include: Allergens from dust, animal fur, cockroaches, mould,…

Anxiety disorders respond very well to treatment and often in a relatively short amount of time. The specific treatment approach depends on the type of anxiety disorder and its severity. Mild symptoms may be relieved with lifestyle changes (eg regular physical exercise) and self-help (eg online e-therapies). Where symptoms of anxiety are moderate to severe, psychological and/or medical treatments are likely to be required. But in general, most anxiety disorders are treated with behavioural…

Can anxiety be prevented Everything from your activity level to your social life affects anxiety. Set the stage for success by making a conscious decision to promote relaxation, vitality and a positive mental outlook in your everyday life. Learn about anxiety. In order to overcome anxiety, it’s important to understand the problem. Cultivate your connections with other people. Loneliness and isolation set the stage for anxiety. Make it a point to see friends; join a self-help…

Self-diagnosis If you think you may have an anxiety disorder, ask yourself the following questions. If you identify with several of the following signs and symptoms, and they just won’t go away, you may be suffering from an anxiety disorder and you need to consult a doctor. Are you constantly tense, worried or on edge? Does your anxiety interfere with your work, school or family responsibilities? Are you plagued by fears that you know are irrational, but can’t shake? Do you believe that…

There are different types of anxiety. The six most common anxiety disorders are: Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD): A person feels anxious on most days, worrying about lots of different things, for a period of six months or more. If patients have GAD, they can feel worried all the time and this can seem out of control. They may feel this way though there is no real reason for worry. Patient might feel ‘on edge’ and very alert to surroundings a lot of the time. This can affect day-to-day life.…

Signs and symptoms of anxiety In moderation, anxiety isn’t always a bad thing. In fact, anxiety can help you stay alert and focused, spur you to action, and motivate you to solve problems. But when anxiety is constant or overwhelming, when it interferes with your relationships and activities, it stops being functional - that’s when you’ve crossed the line from normal, productive anxiety into the territory of anxiety disorders. Anxiety disorders are a group of related conditions rather than a…