COVID-19 & Asthma: A breathtaking situation

Are you an asthma patient who’s living in fear of getting infected by a coronavirus? If yes, here’s what you should know.

Asthma is a long-term condition that affects the airways in the lungs. In this condition, the airways become inflamed which makes it difficult for the person to breathe. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought a sense of fear among asthma patients that their respiratory problems might increase their risk of getting infected by COVID-19. However, studies show that asthma does not raise the chances of developing a coronavirus. But if you get infected, the symptoms could be worse than others considering that you already have a problem of breathing trouble. So knowing how to manage asthma during COVID-19 is extremely important.

Signs and symptoms of Asthma and COVID-19

COVID-19 and Asthma are both lung conditions and share similar signs and symptoms. So it becomes difficult to identify which condition is causing the trouble.

Some of the common symptoms of asthma are chest tightening, shortness of breath, persistent coughing, and a whistling sound while breathing out.

Symptoms of COVID-19 are persistent fever, cough, congestion, shortness of breath, body ache, loss of appetite and taste, nausea or vomiting, headache, and diarrhea.

Since there are similar warning signs, ensure that you get yourself tested for COVID-19 at the earliest if you observe symptoms like fever, cough, and shortness of breath.

Precautions that an asthma patient must take during COVID-19

Prescribed medication:

Remember that anyone with asthma should continue to take their routine medication and ensure that they follow their asthma self-management plans to stay safe and healthy.

Maintain social distancing:

It is best to avoid stepping out of your homes during the pandemic. However, if necessary ensure that you practice social distancing when you step out for your essential needs.

Wear a mask:

When you step out of your home, make sure that you wear fabric or any mask that allows easy breathing.

Take the COVID-19 vaccination:

People with comorbidities or conditions like asthma are encouraged and advised to get vaccinated at the earliest to avoid any health complications. So if you have asthma ensure that you get yourself vaccinated soon against the virus.

If you face breathing trouble regularly, consult an expert doctor who will first conduct a detailed medical and physical examination. Followed by, you may be advised to take tests like Lung function test, spirometry, or allergy tests to determine your condition the best. At Apollo Diagnostics, we provide error-free tests with the help of our state-of-the-art facilities at an affordable price. We also provide the home collection service so you can get tested at the convenience and safety of your own home.