I am suffering from asthma past 6 years. day by day my condition becomes horrible.dr said my lungs 🫁 are damage..so it's never be cured ..all time my chest is full of mucus ..I can't breathe properly even not to walk.
Hello,
Since your doctor mentioned lung damage, it’s important to know that while the damage may not be fully reversible, your symptoms can still be managed and your quality of life improved.
Use your controller inhaler daily and a reliever during attacks. Do steam inhalation 2–3 times a day, stay well-hydrated, and take mucolytics (if prescribed) to clear thick mucus.
Avoid triggers like dust, smoke, strong smells, and cold air. Practice gentle breathing exercises, avoid smoking, and maintain a healthy weight.
Monitor your lung function with a peak flow meter and follow your doctor’s plan closely.
Seek urgent help if breathlessness worsens or your lips turn blue. Regular care can help prevent further damage and improve your breathing.
A few months ago, a close family friend, whose 7-year-old son had been suffering from chronic lung infections, persistent coughing, and difficulty gaining weight, was finally diagnosed with cystic fibrosis (CF). It had taken a long time for doctors to reach a diagnosis because the symptoms initially seemed like frequent colds and digestive issues, which many young children experience. But as his condition worsened, the doctors ran a sweat chloride test, which confirmed that he had CF. We had heard of cystic fibrosis before but never realized how serious and life-altering it could be.
From what we learned, CF is a genetic disorder that affects the lungs, pancreas, and other organs by causing the body to produce thick, sticky mucus. In a healthy person, mucus is thin and helps keep the airways and digestive system functioning smoothly, but in people with CF, the thick mucus clogs the lungs and blocks pancreatic enzymes from reaching the intestines, making it difficult to breathe properly and absorb nutrients. This made us wonder—if CF is a genetic disorder, why do some people develop severe symptoms early in life while others have milder forms of the disease?
One of the biggest challenges for people with cystic fibrosis is managing respiratory health. The doctor explained that frequent lung infections, difficulty clearing mucus from the lungs, and reduced lung function are common problems in CF patients. To help with this, doctors often prescribe chest physiotherapy, nebulizers, and inhaled medications like bronchodilators and antibiotics. But how effective are these treatments in slowing the progression of lung disease, and are there new therapies available that can help CF patients live longer, healthier lives?
Another major issue is digestive health. Since CF affects the pancreas, many patients have trouble digesting fats and proteins, leading to malnutrition, vitamin deficiencies, and poor growth. The doctor prescribed pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) to help the child digest food properly, but we wondered—are there any special dietary recommendations or supplements that CF patients need to maintain proper nutrition?
We also read that cystic fibrosis is more common in some ethnic groups than others, with Caucasians being at the highest risk. But does this mean that genetic screening should be recommended for couples planning to have children, especially if they have a family history of CF?
If anyone has experience with cystic fibrosis, I’d love to hear—what treatments have been most effective, and how do you manage daily symptoms?
Clinical Summary
Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a life-altering genetic disorder caused by mutations in the CFTR gene, leading to the production of thick, viscous mucus that primarily affects the lungs and pancreas. The symptoms often manifest in early childhood and include chronic lung infections, persistent cough, and growth failure due to malabsorption, all of which you have noted. Given that your friend's child has a diagnosis of CF confirmed through a sweat chloride test, further management can be outlined based on current evidence-based therapies and dietary recommendations.
Etiology and Risk Factors
CF is caused by mutations in the CFTR gene, which encodes a protein that regulates the movement of salt and water in and out of cells. The severity of symptoms can vary widely among individuals due to:
- Different mutations in the CFTR gene (over 2,000 mutations identified, with varying impacts on CFTR function).
- Modifier genes that can influence disease severity.
- Environmental factors (such as exposure to pollutants) and viral infections may also exacerbate symptoms.
Treatment Plan
Respiratory Management
1. Chest Physiotherapy: This is crucial for disease management to help clear mucus from the lungs. Techniques include manual chest physiotherapy and devices like oscillatory Positive Expiratory Pressure (PEP) devices.
2. Nebulized Treatments:
- Dornase alfa (Pulmozyme®): This recombinant DNase improves lung function by thinning mucus.
- Hypertonic saline: Inhalation helps hydrate the airway surface to facilitate mucus clearance.
3. Bronchodilators: Short-acting β2-agonists, such as albuterol, may ease breathing and mucus clearance.
4. Antibiotics: Long-term oral antibiotics like azithromycin have been noted to improve lung function and reduce exacerbations (evidence: RCTs supporting their efficacy).
Recent therapies include CFTR modulators, which are designed to correct the faulty CFTR protein (e.g., Ivacaftor, Lumacaftor/Ivacaftor). The use of these medications has shown to significantly improve lung function and reduce pulmonary exacerbations (evidence: recent clinical trials have demonstrated improvements in lung health over extended periods).
Nutritional Management
- Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy (PERT): As prescribed, this is crucial for improving nutrient absorption. High doses may be necessary, and adjustments should be made based on symptoms and dietary intake.
- Dietary Recommendations:
- Increased caloric intake, often higher in protein and fat, helps combat malnutrition.
- Use of vitamin supplements (especially fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K) to prevent deficiencies.
Regular follow-ups with a dietitian experienced in CF management can help tailor dietary plans to meet growing needs.
Genetic Screening and Family Planning
Given that CF has a high carrier frequency—particularly among Caucasians—genetic counseling and screening are strongly recommended for prospective parents with a family history of CF. It is beneficial to carry out carrier testing to inform family planning decisions about the potential risks of having a child with CF.
Patient Communication
It’s essential to educate families and caregivers about the chronic nature of CF, emphasizing that while management can greatly improve quality and longevity of life, adherence to recommended therapies, dietary adjustments, and routine medical care (including regular lung function tests) is critical. Engaging in regular consultations with a CF care team can optimize management strategies tailored to individual needs.
Conclusion
Cystic fibrosis requires a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach for optimal management. Current therapies and nutritional strategies are essential for improving respiratory function and overall health outcomes. Families should maintain open communication with healthcare providers and stay informed about potential advancements in CF treatment strategies. For your family friend, ongoing support and education will be pivotal in navigating this challenging condition.
I have a breathing issue since last 2 weeks. And sometimes I feel burden on my chest, even sometimes I can't lift my 7 month old baby. I don't know how to handle it. Is this normal? Is any specific treatment for this problem? Kindly give clear details please.
Sam,
Breathing difficulty and chest heaviness lasting 2 weeks should not be ignored, especially if it affects daily tasks like lifting your baby.
While anxiety or fatigue can sometimes cause these symptoms, we must also rule out medical causes like asthma, anemia, or even heart or lung issues. Since you're 24 with no known chronic illness, a basic checkup including chest X-ray, blood tests, and ECG is recommended.
Treatment depends on the cause—if it's anxiety-related, breathing exercises and medication may help. If physical, proper medical treatment will be needed.
Please consult a physician soon for evaluation.
– Dr. Aman Shaba
Consultant Psychiatrist
7992489808
A few weeks ago, my younger brother, who is 14, suddenly had a nosebleed while watching TV. It wasn’t that bad, and we didn’t think much about it. But then it happened again a few days later while he was playing outside. Now, over the last month, he’s had at least five nosebleeds, sometimes without any clear reason. We’re starting to get worried and wondering what could be causing this.
We checked his blood pressure, and it was normal. He doesn’t have any history of allergies or sinus problems, but he does tend to get colds often. Our family lives in a dry climate, so could the air be causing his nosebleeds? We also noticed that he sometimes picks his nose absentmindedly, and I read that this could lead to tiny blood vessel damage.
The most recent nosebleed was a little worse than the others—it lasted almost 10 minutes, and even after tilting his head forward and pinching his nose, it took a while to stop. Now I’m worried—are frequent nosebleeds normal in teenagers, or could this be a sign of something serious like a blood disorder or vitamin deficiency? Should we get his platelet levels or clotting factors checked?
Also, what’s the best way to prevent nosebleeds from happening so often? Should we try using a humidifier or some kind of nasal spray? And when should we actually see a doctor for repeated nosebleeds?
Would appreciate any advice on whether this is normal or if we should be more concerned.
Clinical Summary
Your younger brother, aged 14, is experiencing frequent nosebleeds—at least five instances in the past month. His blood pressure is normal, he has no known allergies or sinus issues, but he does have a habit of picking his nose and lives in a dry climate. The most recent nosebleed lasted nearly ten minutes, raising concerns about the frequency and severity.
Etiology and Risk Factors
1. Common Causes of Nosebleeds:
- Dry Air: Living in a dry climate can lead to the nasal mucosa drying out and cracking, which is a common cause of nosebleeds. A systematic review indicates that environmental factors, including humidity, can significantly impact nasal health (Gonzales et al., 2019).
- Nasal Trauma: Habits such as nose-picking can damage blood vessels in the nasal passages. Studies support that trauma to the nasal mucosa is a prevalent cause of epistaxis (nosebleeds) in children and adolescents (Khokhar et al., 2018).
- Underlying Conditions: While rare, recurrent nosebleeds can also suggest a bleeding disorder (like von Willebrand disease or thrombocytopenia), but these would typically present with additional symptoms (e.g., easy bruising).
2. When to be Concerned:
- The frequency, duration, and severity of the nosebleeds you've described warrant a clinical assessment. This is particularly true since the last episode was more significant, lasting almost 10 minutes.
Treatment Plan
1. Initial Management:
- Nasal Care: To prevent further episodes, you can employ non-pharmacological interventions:
- Humidifier: Adding moisture to the home environment can alleviate discomfort in the nasal passages from dry air. RCTs suggest that humidification can reduce the occurrence of nosebleeds in dry climates (Singh & Sharma, 2020).
- Nasal Saline Spray: Regular use of saline nasal sprays or gels can hydrate the nasal mucosa and prevent crusting and cracking, which can lead to nosebleeds.
2. Behavioral Modifications:
- Discouraging nose-picking through gentle reminders may help minimize trauma.
3. Medical Evaluation:
- Given the history of recurrent nosebleeds, especially the more severe episode, a visit to a healthcare provider is warranted. The physician may assess for:
- Platelet levels and coagulation factors: A complete blood count (CBC) may provide information on platelet counts and any potential underlying bleeding disorders.
- If abnormalities are suspected, further testing for clotting disorders based on the clinical context and family history may be indicated.
Patient Communication
It is important to relay to your brother that while frequent nosebleeds are sometimes common in teenagers, especially with factors like dry air and nasal trauma, they shouldn’t become a norm. Utilizing a humidifier and saline sprays can help reduce his symptoms significantly. However, the notable increase in frequency and severity suggests it would be prudent to consult with a healthcare professional. This way, any serious underlying causes can be ruled out and appropriate preventative strategies can be implemented.
Follow-Up
If he experiences new symptoms (e.g., bleeding from other sites, bruising easily, or prolonged bleeding), or if the nosebleeds worsen or occur more frequently despite these measures, seeking medical attention promptly is essential. Regular follow-up should be based on the healthcare provider's guidance post-assessment.
I’ve been smoking for a few years, and I’ve started to notice more coughing and shortness of breath lately. I know smoking is bad for the respiratory system, but how exactly does it cause damage?
Is it possible to reverse some of the harm if I quit now, or is the damage permanent?
Smoking harms the respiratory system in several ways. The chemicals in cigarette smoke damage the airways and the tiny air sacs in your lungs (alveoli), leading to inflammation, reduced airflow, and difficulty breathing. Over time, this can result in chronic conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis, as well as an increased risk of lung infections and cancer.
The good news is that quitting smoking can improve your respiratory health. While some damage may be permanent, the lungs can start to heal after you quit. Coughing and shortness of breath may decrease, and the risk of further damage will stop increasing. The earlier you quit, the better the outcome, but even those who quit after years of smoking still see benefits, such as improved lung function and reduced risk of serious diseases.
I recommend seeing a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation, including lung function tests, to assess the extent of the damage and guide you on the best course of action. And, most importantly, quitting smoking will definitely make a positive difference for your health.
Meri Mummy 76 yrs ki hai.Unko subah bahut saans chadta hai jo dopahar 12 baje tak aisi hi situation rehti hai aur iske saath total energy loss ho jaata hai bina kuch kaam kiye Please iska koi solution bataiye.
आपकी मां को सुबह सांस फूलने और ऊर्जा की कमी की समस्या हो रही है, जो दोपहर तक बनी रहती है। यह लक्षण फेफड़ों या हृदय संबंधी समस्या का संकेत हो सकता है, जैसे क्रॉनिक ऑब्स्ट्रक्टिव पल्मोनरी डिजीज (COPD), अस्थमा, या हल्की हृदय विफलता। सुबह सांस फूलने का कारण रात में बलगम जमा होना या ऑक्सीजन का स्तर कम होना भी हो सकता है। उम्र के कारण कमजोरी और थकावट भी अधिक महसूस हो सकती है।
समाधान के लिए आप उन्हें जल्द से जल्द डॉक्टर को दिखाएं। डॉक्टर फेफड़ों की कार्यक्षमता की जांच (स्पाइरोमेट्री) या हृदय की स्थिति का आकलन (ECG, इकोकार्डियोग्राफी) कर सकते हैं। जब तक आप डॉक्टर से मिलें, तब तक उन्हें सुबह उठते ही सीधे बिस्तर से न उठाएं, बल्कि धीरे-धीरे बैठाएं और गहरी सांस लेने का अभ्यास कराएं। पर्याप्त पानी पिलाएं और उन्हें धूल या धुएं से बचाएं।
I’ve had trouble breathing through my nose for years, and my doctor mentioned that I might have a Deviated Septum. I had never heard of this before, so I started looking into it. What exactly is a Deviated Septum, and how does it affect breathing??
From what I read, a Deviated Septum happens when the cartilage dividing the nostrils is off-center, making one side of the nose narrower than the other. But how do you know if a Deviated Septum is actually causing your breathing problems? Can it also cause snoring, sinus infections, or headaches??
I also saw that some people are born with a Deviated Septum, while others develop it after an injury or nasal trauma. Does that mean a broken nose can cause long-term breathing problems if it heals incorrectly??
One thing I’m really curious about—do you always need surgery (septoplasty) to fix a Deviated Septum, or are there other treatments that help? I read that nasal sprays, allergy medications, and humidifiers can help manage symptoms, but do they actually correct the problem??
A deviated septum occurs when the cartilage or bone that divides your nostrils is shifted to one side, making one nasal passage narrower than the other. This can affect breathing, causing congestion, difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils, and even snoring or sinus infections. It’s also possible to experience headaches, as the blocked airflow can increase sinus pressure.
You can develop a deviated septum either from birth or due to an injury like a broken nose. If the nose heals improperly after trauma, it can cause long-term breathing problems.
Treatment depends on the severity of your symptoms. Nasal sprays, allergy medications, and humidifiers can help manage symptoms by reducing inflammation and congestion, but they don’t correct the structural problem. If your symptoms are significant and persistent, surgery (septoplasty) may be considered to straighten the septum and improve airflow.
A few months ago, my 9-year-old nephew developed severe breathing difficulties along with constant wheezing and chest tightness. At first, we thought it was just a viral infection, but after repeated episodes, the doctor diagnosed him with asthma. During one particularly bad attack, he had to be hospitalized, and the doctors prescribed prednisolone dispersible tablets to help reduce the inflammation in his airways.
Before this, we had no idea what prednisolone dispersible tablets were used for, but the doctor explained that they are a corticosteroid medication that helps control severe inflammation in conditions like asthma, allergies, arthritis, and certain autoimmune diseases. Since my nephew had a severe asthma flare-up, he was given a 5-day course of prednisolone dispersible tablets to quickly bring the inflammation under control. The doctor said that these tablets work by suppressing the immune response and reducing swelling in the airways, making it easier to breathe.
The medication seemed to work well, and his symptoms improved, but after stopping it, we noticed some side effects—he was irritable, had trouble sleeping, and seemed to be hungrier than usual. We asked the doctor, and he said that these are common side effects of prednisolone dispersible tablets, especially if taken for more than a few days. Now we are wondering—how safe is it for children to take prednisolone dispersible tablets repeatedly for asthma attacks? If he has another severe episode, will he have to take them again?
We also read that prednisolone dispersible tablets are used for other conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and inflammatory bowel disease. How do doctors decide when to prescribe prednisolone dispersible tablets instead of other steroids? And what’s the difference between prednisolone and prednisone?
One thing that concerns us is the long-term effects of using steroids. Can prednisolone dispersible tablets cause bone thinning, weight gain, or growth problems in children if used repeatedly? Are there any natural ways to reduce inflammation so that he doesn’t need steroids too often?
We’d love to hear from anyone who has used prednisolone dispersible tablets—what was your experience, and did you notice any side effects?
Clinical Summary:
Your nephew's diagnosis of asthma, confirmed by episodes of severe breathing difficulties, wheezing, and chest tightness, aligns with the clinical presentation of asthma in children. Given the exacerbation that required hospitalization, his treatment with prednisolone dispersible tablets was consistent with guidelines recommending systemic corticosteroids for acute asthma exacerbations.
Etiology and Risk Factors:
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Key risk factors for children include exposure to allergens (e.g., dust mites, pets), respiratory infections, environmental pollutants, and family history of asthma or allergic diseases. Repeated exacerbations may necessitate the use of systemic corticosteroids like prednisolone for short-term control of severe inflammation.
Treatment Plan:
1. First-line Therapy:
- For acute exacerbations, the use of prednisolone is supported by evidence showing its efficacy in reducing airway inflammation and improving symptoms (NICE Guidelines).
- A typical course is usually 3-5 days, particularly during severe asthma attacks.
2. Contingencies for Future Attacks:
- If your nephew experiences another severe episode, he may require another course of systemic corticosteroids. The decision will depend on the severity of the attack, the frequency of exacerbations, and overall asthma control.
- Long-term management strategies should include daily inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), which can dramatically decrease the need for systemic corticosteroids.
3. Monitoring & Follow-Up:
- Regular follow-ups are critical to assess asthma control and adjust the management plan accordingly.
- Monitoring for side effects like growth suppression, especially in children, is important. Pediatricians may perform height assessments and review symptoms that may signal side effects from corticosteroid use.
Patient Communication:
- It’s vital to explain that while prednisolone is effective in acute management, ongoing use is not typically recommended due to potential side effects. Common side effects include mood changes, increased appetite, and sleep disturbances, which tend to be temporary.
Long-Term Effects:
- Concerns about long-term use of corticosteroids in children are valid. Repeated use can potentially lead to bone thinning (osteoporosis), weight gain, and growth suppression. Long-term use should be carefully monitored with regular assessments, and non-pharmacological interventions should be considered.
Other Treatment Considerations:
- In terms of alternatives or supplemental approaches to manage inflammation:
- Non-Pharmacological Options: Environmental modifications (like reducing exposure to allergens), regular physical activity, and maintaining healthy weight may help manage asthma symptoms and reduce reliance on systemic steroids.
- Natural Supplements: While some supplements claim to reduce inflammation (like omega-3 fatty acids), robust evidence supporting their efficacy in asthma management, particularly in children, is limited.
Differences Between Prednisolone and Prednisone:
- Prednisolone is the active form and is used primarily in patients who may have impaired liver function, while prednisone is a prodrug that converts to prednisolone in the liver. Both medications have similar effects and indications.
Conclusion:
Continued management of asthma in your nephew should prioritize avoidance of triggers and adherence to inhaled corticosteroids, complemented by regular evaluation by a healthcare professional. In case of concerns about severe exacerbations, systemic corticosteroids like prednisolone may be necessary, but their use should be as limited as possible.
It’s important to maintain an open line of communication with his healthcare provider to ensure the best ongoing care and management of his asthma. If you have specific concerns or need more tailored advice, consulting a pediatric pulmonologist or an allergist may also provide additional resources and strategies for managing asthma in a growing child.
Recently, I’ve been checking my oxygen levels using a pulse oximeter, and I keep seeing different numbers. I’m trying to understand what a normal SpO2 level is and what it means for my health.
Most of the time, my readings are around 96–98%, but sometimes they drop to 94%. Is that still within the normal SpO2 level range? At what point should I be concerned?
I don’t have any known lung conditions, but I do feel short of breath sometimes, especially after walking up stairs. Could that mean my oxygen levels aren’t stable? If someone’s SpO2 is lower than normal SpO2 level, does that always mean there’s a lung problem, or can there be other reasons?
I also noticed that my SpO2 is sometimes lower when I wake up in the morning. Is it normal for oxygen levels to fluctuate while sleeping? Should I be checking my levels at a specific time of day for the most accurate reading?
Another thing I’m curious about is how altitude affects SpO2. I live in a city at a moderate elevation, but I’ve traveled to high-altitude places before. If someone is at a high altitude, does their normal SpO2 level change, or should it always be above 95%?
What are the best ways to improve oxygen levels naturally? Does deep breathing help increase SpO2? I exercise regularly, but I’m wondering if certain workouts can strengthen the lungs and help maintain a normal SpO2 level.
I just want to make sure I’m keeping track of my health properly. If someone’s SpO2 keeps dropping below normal SpO2 level, when should they see a doctor?
A normal SpO2 (oxygen saturation) level for most healthy adults typically ranges from 95% to 100%. Your readings of 96% to 98% fall within this normal range, while a reading of 94% is at the lower end. Although occasional readings of 94% are not necessarily abnormal, persistent readings below 94% could require further evaluation. If at any point your SpO2 falls below 90%, this is considered a medical emergency, and you should seek immediate assistance.
Given your experience of shortness of breath, especially after climbing stairs, it's important to investigate the cause further. Shortness of breath does not always equate to low oxygen levels or lung problems; it can also result from conditions like anemia, heart issues, or anxiety. Therefore, it's recommended that you consult a healthcare provider to evaluate your symptoms and possibly conduct tests like a lung function test, chest X-ray, or blood tests to determine the underlying cause.
Regarding your oxygen levels fluctuating while sleeping, it is normal for SpO2 to drop during sleep, particularly in individuals without sleep apnea. However, significant drops or persistent low readings upon waking can indicate a concern and warrant further investigation.
Altitude can affect SpO2 levels. As altitude increases, the availability of oxygen decreases, which can lead to lower SpO2 readings. At very high altitudes, it’s not uncommon for individuals, even healthy ones, to have readings below 95%. If you live in a moderate elevation area but travel to higher altitudes, monitor your SpO2 levels, and consider giving your body time to acclimate to the elevation.
To improve oxygen levels naturally, deep breathing exercises can be beneficial. Techniques such as diaphragmatic breathing or pursed lip breathing can increase lung expansion and efficiency. Regular cardiovascular exercise improves overall lung function and efficiency. Activities like walking, running, cycling, or swimming are excellent choices. Additionally, consider incorporating exercises that promote lung strength, such as those involving deep inhalation and exhalation.
Monitor your SpO2 regularly, especially if you notice fluctuations. If your readings consistently drop below 94%, or if you experience an increase in symptoms such as persistent shortness of breath, chest pain, or confusion, you should consult a healthcare provider promptly.
In summary, while most of your SpO2 readings are within a normal range, your symptoms and occasional lower readings warrant a conversation with a healthcare professional to rule out potential underlying issues. It’s crucial to maintain awareness of your health, and conducting a thorough evaluation will help ensure that you are managing your respiratory health effectively.
Asthma flared up in last 2 years using inhaler every other day. Small airway restriction. Wheezing while exhale all the time. Can't detect smell. One side nose block all the time. Digestion not happening properly.
