Don’t hesitate to consult specialists as asthma cases surge in summer
abu dhabi — On the occasion of World Asthma Day, health experts in the UAE have alerted patients to be extra cautious during the summer season, as symptoms are likely to increase during the dusty and humid weather conditions. Annually celebrated on the first Tuesday of May, the World Asthma Day aims to raise awareness and improve the lives of asthma sufferers around the world.
Dr Trilok Chand, specialist in respiratory medicine, Burjeel Hospital, told Khaleej Times that one in every six to eight people in the UAE suffer from asthma, with an estimated number of 16 per cent of the entire population carrying the health condition. “Asthma is very common in the region, and the reason for the high statistics is the temperature and environmental conditions. With summer around the corner, there will definitely be a rise in asthma prevalence.”
Dr Chand pointed out that asthma is a genetically determined health condition, often inherited by children from their parents.
“Those who never had asthma in their lives, may develop the underlying asthma symptoms in humid conditions. Some patients that come from West, have never had asthma, but developed it here.”
He noted that a number of studies indicate asthma is more common in women than in men in the region, but he has personally noticed that it is commonly found in men, and children between the ages of 6-13.
Symptoms include shortness of breath, wheezing and severe coughing. “Patients must be vigilant during summer, avoid going out in sandy and dusty areas, including the beach and desert. These symptoms usually occur at night or very early in the morning.”
He noted that asthma sufferers
Patients must avoid going out in sandy and dusty areas, including the beach and desert. These signs usually occur at night or in early morning.”
Dr Trilok Chand, Respiratory medicine specialist
do not have a set diet, but recommends regular exercise, and eating healthy. “Avoiding smoking is most important.” Dr Chand said that although the health condition is inherited, it may not necessarily be equal among all family members.
“If four family members suffer from asthma, they might not all have the same severity of symptoms.” Dr Chand advises those with asthma symptoms to see a specialist who will put them under a pulmonary function test, prior to subscribing medicine.
Alyazia Al Jneibi, 28, archives specialist at the The National Archives, Ministry of Presidential Affairs, said she was born with the health condition, although her symptoms decreased within the years. She noted that UAE’s weather conditions do not affect her symptoms anymore. “I have had asthma since birth. My case was so severe as a child that I also needed to carry the breathing machine (nebuliser) with me at all times and inhale oxygen for around 30 minutes until the wheezing decreased.”
The 28-year-old pointed out that within time, the symptoms decreased. “After the age of 16, I began to suffer less, although my symptoms would show up when I am in dusty or smoky areas.”
“At the end of the day, you learn to cope with what you have and try your best to take care of your health.”