What are the special features of asthma in children ?
In a previous newsletter we have discussed the special features of asthma in the elderly. In this newsletter let us understand the peculiarities of asthma in children. But before doing that, let me narrate to you my recent experience with a young asthmatic. This young boy, all of seven years, was brought to me for […]
What are the special features of asthma in the elderly?
Asthma can occur in older people (age greater than 65 years) under two circumstances: It was present since younger days, and has persisted. It first appears in old age. In either situation, it can present certain peculiar problems: Symptoms of asthma in the elderly are somewhat different. “Breathlessness” is assumed to be part of normal […]
What is Asthma ?
Before trying to clarify the meaning of the word asthma, let us get some clarity on the term allergy. An allergy is an oversensitivity in a person to certain things in the environment. For instance a person allergic to eggs reacts abnormally after eating an egg. This reaction may occur at different parts of the […]
Gender differences in Asthma?
Most diseases do not discriminate on the basis of gender – that is they occur with nearly equal frequency in both males and females. However, some diseases show partiality towards one sex !! For instance rheumatoid arthritis and thyroid disorders are far more common in females and heart diseases are somewhat more common in men. […]
Is it possible to prevent asthma and allergies?
In the last news letter we explored some of the reasons why asthma and allergies are increasing. This brings us to the next logical question: is it possible to prevent the development of asthma? Yes, it is possible!! Can genetically determined traits be modified by proper environmental influences? For example can two short parents have […]
Why are Asthma & Allergy increasing so much?
Asthma and allergy have become so common nowadays that these medical terms have become household names! When, at a social gathering, I tell someone that I am an Asthma & Allergy specialist, the usual response is: “Doctor, why is asthma increasing so much? It must be the pollution.” This tells us two things. One, the […]
What is the difference between Asthma & Allergy ?
Allergy is mechanism; asthma is a disease. Allergy is an oversensitivity of the immune system to react to certain harmless things in our natural environment. These things (called allergens – what evokes or provokes allergy) could be pollens of weeds or trees, house dust, fungal spores, food items, drugs or cosmetics. The important thing to […]