Just as with children, asthma among seniors can be controlled and
it’s not necessary for older adults to suffer the effects of the
disease on a daily basis. First, however, it’s essential to look
at the symptoms of asthma and ascertain a proper diagnosis, allowing
doctors to prescribe medications that will serve to make life more
comfortable.
Some senior citizens who are suffering from asthma may only present
with a few symptoms, such as wheezing and coughing episodes that recur
often. Chest tightness and shortness of breath may also be
present.
Often, sufferers will notice that symptoms worsen at
night and after exercise.
Another indication that you may be suffering from the disease is the
incidence of asthma or similar illnesses among family members, as the
appearance of the disease is often tied to heredity. A history of
smoking does not necessarily contribute to the onset of asthma, but may
be associated with COPD.
Treating seniors with asthma is often much more difficult than treating
juvenile asthma cases, due to the affects that aging may have on the
body or the existence of other diseases or disabilities. The
interaction of asthma medications with other medications for problems
like high blood pressure, arthritis, glaucoma, tremors, depression or
anxiety, and especially, heart disease, is also of great concern.
Cognitive function, dementia, and other mental disorders may make it
difficult for seniors to properly handle metered-dosage inhalers and
other such common asthma medications as well.
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By: ropppp Posted: Feb 01 2006 04:09:45 PM