Even after so many months, the cases of COVID-19 have been increasing at a constant pace. Although we are getting back to our normal lives, people have now become more cautious about their health, than ever. Especially people, who have underlying medical conditions or have recently undergone surgery, need to be more careful.
COVID-19 affects the respiratory system and for those who are suffering from other respiratory diseases like asthma, the situation may get adverse and extra precautions are to be taken by them. Our expert, Dr. Sanjay Jain explains, “Asthma is a disease in which there is swelling in the windpipe. Additional phlegm begins to form in the windpipe and due to the breathing difficulties, it might trigger continuous coughing. Shrinkage of the airways may also cause shortness of breath.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “People with moderate-to-severe asthma may be at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19. COVID-19 can affect your respiratory tract (nose, throat, lungs), cause an asthma attack, and possibly lead to pneumonia and acute respiratory disease,”. Therefore, conditions being so severe and fatal, asthmatic patients need to follow all the instructions strictly, as long as the coronavirus outbreak continues.
Tips to remember
Here are some important measures Dr. Sanjay recommends for asthmatic patients:
- Keep items of frequent use of clean and infection-free. These include doorknobs, handles, light switches, mobile phones, etc. and sanitize them properly.
- Stay away from people having the flu or cold, even if they are not COVID-19 positive.
- Do not share personal items like towels, clothes, etc. with anyone.
- Asthma patients should not smoke, but even if they do, try to avoid it for some time.
- Also, avoid passive smoking. If anyone is smoking cigarettes or hookah near you, maintain a distance from them.
- Changing weather increases the chances of allergies. And since it is monsoon season, allergies are at its peak. Therefore, follow proper medication as prescribed by your doctor.
- Stress affects our body’s immunity and thus, staying away from stress, practicing yoga, and following a proper exercise routine is important.
- Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Ensure the consumption of a nutritious and balanced diet.
- Use inhalers and anti-allergic medicines as prescribed. Do not alter or skip your medication. If required, stock them.
- Avoid going to crowded places, unless extremely necessary.
Hence, unless we get vaccinations, proper precautions are to be followed by everyone, especially those who are at a higher risk. Stay home as much as possible. Tele-consultation is available and therefore, avoid going to the hospital or visiting a doctor unnecessarily.
