What is Asthma?
Asthma is a long-term lung condition in which your airways narrow, swell and may produce excessive mucus. During as asthma episode, inflamed airways react to environmental triggers including dust, pollen & smoke. The airways get narrower and produce excess mucus, making it difficult to breathe.
Asthma affects almost one quarter of all Malaysian children and up to 15% of adults. Unfortunately, only 40% of Malaysian adults with asthma believe their symptoms are well-controlled.
Common Risk Factors
Sign & Symptoms
•Shortness of breath
•Wheezing
•Chest tightness
•Persistent cough
•Rapid breathing
Complications:
•Sleep difficulties
•Respiratory failure
•Airway remodelling (permanent change in airway structure)
•Emergency room visits & hospitalizations
Food to Focus
•Fresh fruits & vegetables
•Food rich in vitamin D (fatty fish, mushroom, egg yolk, cheese)
•Nuts and seeds (hazelnut, raw seeds)
•Food rich in vitamin C (oranges, kiwi, strawberries)
Food to Avoid
•Dried fruits
•Beans
•Coffee
•Fast food
Lifestyle Modifications
•Clean the house regularly
•Avoid trigger factors
•Reduce stress through relaxation techniques
•Quit smoking
•Exercise regularly
•Quit smoking
References
1. Asthma [Internet]. World Health Organization. World Health Organization; [cited 2022Jan3]. Available from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/asthma
2. Understanding asthma [Internet]. Asthma Malaysia. 2018 [cited 2022Jan3]. Available from: https://www.asthmamalaysia.org/understanding-asthma
3. Asthma and your diet: Foods that help and hurt [Internet]. WebMD. WebMD; [cited 2022Jan3]. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/asthma/ss/slideshow-asthma-and-your-diet
4. Asthma and diet: What to eat and avoid [Internet]. Medical News Today. MediLexicon International; [cited 2022Jan3]. Available from: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/asthma-diet
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