World Asthma Day 2023: This day is an global initiative to spread asthma awareness globally
Highlights
- Asthma is a condition in which a person's airways become inflamed
- Asthma attacks cause difficulty in breathing
- Asthma attacks can cause heavy wheezing
World Asthma Day is observed on first Tuesday of every May. It is a global initiative to improve asthma awareness and care around the world. World Asthma Day 2023 will be observed on May 2. Asthma is a long term disease that affects the lungs. This condition causes inflammation in the airways and narrows them making it difficult to breathe. It triggers coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. Asthma cannot be cured but symptoms can be managed effectively which helps asthma patients lead a normal life. Shortness of breath, pain in chest, constant coughing or wheezing that may disturb sleep are some common symptoms of asthma. Patients also experience asthma attacks which can worsen due to respiratory illness.
World Asthma Day 2020: Theme, significance and history
The theme for World Asthma Day 2023 is "Asthma care for All". Every year the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) dedicates the complete year to work towards the theme. According to the GINA website, "The Asthma care for All message promotes the development and implementation of effective asthma management programs in all resource countries."
World Asthma Day 2020: To prevent asthma attacks you need to follow a healthy lifestyle
Photo Credit: iStock
Also read: Yoga Poses To Relieve Asthma Symptoms During High Pollution Levels
History
World Asthma Day was first observed in 1998. Since then participation has increased to create more awareness about this disease followed by different educational events. It is observed in more than 35 countries.
Also read: 5 Yoga Asanas That Can Relieve Asthma Symptoms And Ease Breathing
Tips to prevent asthma attacks
Someone with asthma needs to reduce exposure to asthma triggers. There are steps that can help control and prevent an attack. Some of these may include-
1. Stay away from allergens which may increase inflammation. If you have any allergies then you should take all necessary precautions to avoid allergic reactions.
2. Take all precautions to prevent cold or flu as these can cause breathing difficulties and make asthma symptoms worse.
Asthma Day 2020: Take necessary steps to prevent cold and cough
Photo Credit: iStock
3. People with asthma should also avoid smoke. Exposure to any kind of smoke can make asthma worse and result in an asthma attack.
4. You should avoid certain asthma triggers which include- cold air, air pollution, cold, flu, smoke or fragrances.
Also read: World Asthma Day 2020: Expert Shares Tips To Manage Asthma Amidst COVID-19 Pandemic
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.