World Asthma Day is an annual event organized by the Global Initiative for Asthma to improve asthma awareness and care around the world. World Asthma Day is held on the first Tuesday in May, in collaboration with health care groups and asthma educators throughout the world. Asthma impacts around 8.3% of Americans, which is close to 26.5 million people.1 This Tuesday, take the time to learn more about Asthma and how you can help raise awareness!
What is Asthma?
Asthma is a chronic lung disease that inflames and narrows the airways. Asthma causes recurring periods of wheezing (a whistling sound when you breathe), chest tightness, shortness of breath, and coughing. The coughing often occurs at night or early in the morning.2
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Asthma?
While these symptoms are very common for individuals with asthma, the best way to know for sure is to schedule an appointment with your doctor. They’re be able to perform a physical exam and possibly a lung function test.
Common signs and symptoms of asthma include:
Coughing: Coughing from asthma often is worse at night or early in the morning, making it hard to sleep.
Wheezing: Wheezing is a whistling or squeaky sound that occurs when you breathe.
Chest tightness: This may feel like something is squeezing or sitting on your chest.
Shortness of breath: Some people who have asthma say they can’t catch their breath, or they feel out of breath. You may feel like you can’t get air out of your lungs.
How can you participate in World Asthma Day?
Organize debates about local issues affecting asthma control—e.g., pollution, smoking, access to asthma care & medication
Organize a hike for people with asthma and their friends, led by a health care provider who can educate the group about managing asthma in an outdoor environment.
Arrange school visits on or prior to World Asthma Day—educate children about asthma and offer on-the-spot peak flow meter testing. These activities could be combined with plays, concerts, or poetry competitions highlighting the concept of asthma control.
Find more ideas here.
Tria Health and Asthma
Many patients decide to take medications in order to effectively manage their asthma. If Tria Health is offered through your benefits plan, you have the option of receiving a one-on-one, private consultation with one of Tria Health’s pharmacists over the phone. During your consultation, your pharmacist will review all your current medications, including vitamins and supplements. If you’re interested in exploring medication treatments for asthma, Tria’s pharmacist will be able to provide you with recommendations.
Questions?
Call the Tria Health Help Desk: 1.888.799.8742
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