By Ekuphileni Clinic

As temperatures continue to drop across Eswatini, healthcare facilities are seeing a sharp increase in patients experiencing breathing difficulties, particularly those living with asthma. The winter season, while often welcomed for its cool relief, brings with it a rise in respiratory illnesses, and asthma attacks are currently on the rise. At Ekuphileni Clinic, we have observed a notable surge in asthma cases over the past few weeks. The cold, dry air, combined with smoke from indoor fires and increased time spent in enclosed spaces, creates a perfect storm for asthma flare-ups. For many individuals, especially children and the elderly, winter can become a dangerous time if asthma is not well-controlled.

But the good news is that asthma can be effectively managed with the right treatment, knowledge, and lifestyle adjustments.

What Is Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic condition that affects the airways in the lungs. It causes the muscles around these airways to tighten, and the lining inside to swell and produce excess mucus. This makes breathing difficult and may trigger coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. An asthma attack can be sudden and severe, especially during cold weather or after exposure to dust, smoke, or allergens. Recognizing early symptoms and having a proper treatment plan can save lives.

Types of Asthma Medication: Controllers and Relievers

1. Controllers – Your Daily Protection

Controller medications are taken every day, even when symptoms are not present. They are designed to prevent asthma symptoms by reducing the inflammation, mucus production, and muscle tightening in the airways.

They work in the background to keep your asthma under control.

Stopping your controller suddenly, even if you feel fine, can result in worsening symptoms or unexpected attacks.

It's important to take them as prescribed, regardless of how you're feeling.

Think of controllers as a daily maintenance plan—essential to avoid asthma emergencies.

2. Relievers – Your Emergency Rescue

Reliever medications, often called "rescue inhalers," are used when symptoms suddenly appear or during an asthma attack.

1. They work quickly to relax the muscles around the airways, making it easier to breathe.
2. Available in inhaled or oral forms, they are not for daily use unless recommended during specific short-term flare-ups.
3. If you find yourself needing relievers frequently, this is a sign that your asthma is not under control, and your treatment plan needs to be reviewed by a healthcare professional.

Frequent use of relievers is a warning sign, not a solution.

Non-Medication Strategies That Support Asthma Control

In addition to medication, several lifestyle and environmental changes can significantly improve asthma control:

1. Quit smoking: Smoking irritates the airways and reduces the effectiveness of asthma medication.
2. Avoid indoor and outdoor pollutants, including smoke from fires, chemicals, strong scents, and industrial exposure.
3. Get vaccinated: Influenza and other respiratory infections can worsen asthma. Stay protected, especially during the cold season.
4. Limit allergen exposure: Dust mites, mould, pet dander, and pollen are common triggers for many people with asthma.

Warning Signs of an Asthma Attack

Knowing the signs of an asthma attack can help prevent a medical emergency. These include:

1. Persistent coughing or wheezing
2. Tightness in the chest
3. Difficulty breathing or speaking
4. Rapid breathing
5. Blue lips or fingernails (in severe cases)

If you or someone near you is experiencing these symptoms, seek medical help immediately. Managing asthma, especially during winter, requires consistent care and up-to-date knowledge. At Ekuphileni Clinic, our team of healthcare professionals is available to provide accurate asthma diagnosis and assessment, review and adjust treatment plans, educate patients on inhaler techniques, and offer lifestyle and environmental guidance.

Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Take charge of your health this winter and ensure that you or your loved ones breathe a little easier. Visit Ekuphileni Clinic today for support, education, and personalized asthma care.  Call 7602 3380 or visit  www.ekuphileniclinic.com.

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