COVID-19 or the novel coronavirus is haunting the lives of thousands around the globe. The infection itself is one of the deadliest we humans have come across in the recent past.
Since there is no vaccine available, alleviating the symptoms and slowly recovering the patients from it is the only option now. But, since the beginning, the CDC, WHO, and health experts have warned that coronavirus attacks can be more dangerous for those already suffering from other health conditions.
And if the health condition is associated with the respiratory system, it can be even more dangerous as the COVID-19 itself is a severe respiratory infection(1).
Asthma is one such condition that compromises the respiratory system, and people have to be even more careful.
Symptoms of Asthma:
Asthma also has symptoms that are common with COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases. Below listed are the primary symptoms of asthma:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness or pain
- Coughing or wheezing
So, do Asthma patients get easily infected?
There are no strong pieces of evidence that asthma people get more infected than the other groups of people. However, due to the similar symptoms and since both the infections attack the respiratory system, having both of them could make it worse. Hence it is advised that people who have asthma can take some additional precautions to prevent contracting or the complications of suffering from COVID-19 or other respiratory diseases.
On the other hand, people suffering from lung diseases not only asthma but also bronchitis, COPD, or other related respiratory diseases are at a higher risk of developing pneumonia, which may be difficult or hard for people to recover from COVID-19. Even if they recover, the aftermath may also be a little challenging.
In other terms, COVID-19 may deteriorate the function of lungs in healthy people, which may still support the treatment and recovery process. But, for people who have asthma and other respiratory conditions, the lungs may already function with less efficiency, which may make it more challenging for them to go through the treatment or recovery process.
Following all the necessary protocols such as wearing masks, washing hands, physical distance, and restricting travel is highly essential. There are other precautions that people suffering from asthma or other respiratory conditions must take.
Suggested Read:
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• Can the World Control COVID-19?
Relieve your Stress
Stress, often accompanied by anxiety, is one of the triggers for asthma or even breathlessness. Hence, people should take extra efforts to regulate mental health. Practicing meditation, listening to your calm or pleasant music, physical workout, and breathing exercises are some of the best ways to beat the stress.
Also, stay away from anything that can trigger anxiety or panic attacks.
Other Tips to Follow:
- Get a supply of your medications at least for 15 to 30 days.
- Always keep your nebulizer well and clean.
- Know how to use inhalers by yourself.
- Do not go close to people who are sick.
- Do not go outside unless it is essential.
- Clean and disinfect the home and other items regularly (wearing masks and cover your entire body while doing it. If possible, ask your family members to disinfect or clean the rooms for you).
- Make sure that you avoid any allergic foods or stay from anything that may cause any allergies.
Bottom Line:
COVID-19 may complicate the health of people who have asthma, bronchitis, or other respiratory disorders. But, following necessary precautions and take some extra care can easily prevent you from the adversities associated with it.
