Exposure to triggering factors such as urbanization and industrialization significantly exacerbates asthma symptoms, warns Dr. Jagdish Lohia, Consultant Interventional Pulmonologist at Brahmananda Narayana Hospital, Jamshedpur. Speaking on the pressing issue of asthma exacerbation, Dr. Lohia underscored the detrimental impact of long-term exposure to smoke, whether it emanates from outdoor sources like vehicle exhaust and industrial emissions or indoor sources like biomass fuel combustion.

Identifying key risk factors for asthma exacerbation, Dr. Lohia emphasized that individuals with blood relatives suffering from asthma, those with other allergic conditions such as atopic dermatitis or hay fever, smokers, and those exposed to occupational triggers like chemicals are particularly vulnerable. Furthermore, he highlighted the prevalence of indoor allergens such as house dust mites, cockroaches, dust particles, and pollen grains, as documented in an international study spanning five years and encompassing 63,000 asthmatics.

Enumerating the symptoms and triggers of asthma, Dr. Lohia listed dry cough, shortness of breath, chest tightness, wheezing, and various airborne allergens, respiratory infections, cold air, air pollutants, certain medications, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) as common culprits.

He cautioned that asthma can be mistaken for other conditions such as sinusitis, respiratory viral infections, congestive heart failure, airway obstruction, and vocal cord dysfunction. In light of these challenges, Dr. Lohia stressed the importance of having an asthma action plan in place, aligning with this year's theme for Asthma Day, 'asthma Education Empowers.'

Dr. Lohia outlined essential steps for managing asthma effectively, including identifying triggers with professional assistance, crafting a personalized asthma action plan, minimizing exposure to triggers, recognizing warning signs, adhering to medication regimens, and using inhalers correctly.

As urbanization and industrialization continue to shape our environment, Dr. Lohia's insights serve as a timely reminder of the imperative to prioritize asthma education and proactive management strategies to mitigate the impact of this chronic respiratory condition on public health.