Whelehans Health News

Asthma (Part 3)   Other treatment options   Leukotriene receptor antagonists (montelukast): an oral drug that acts by blocking part of the chemical reaction involved in inflammation of the airways. Montelukast is particularly beneficial for two types of asthma: asthma predominantly induced by exercise Asthma associated with allergic rhinitis.   Other types of asthma where montelukast has shown efficacy include asthma in obese patients, asthma in smokers, aspirin-induced asthma, and viral-induced wheezing episodes.  Leukotriene receptor agonists help allergic rhinitis symptoms (eg. hayfever) too.   Theophylline: helps widen the airways by relaxing the muscles around them. Theophylline is known to cause...

Asthma (Part 2) Treatment   Treatment is based on relief of symptoms and preventing future symptoms and attacks from developing.   Short-acting beta 2-agonist (SABA) A short-acting beta 2-agonist (SABA) opens the airways and is best known to patients as a reliever inhaler. These work quickly to relieve asthma. They work by relaxing the muscles surrounding the narrowed airways. Examples of beta 2-agonists include salbutamol and terbutaline. They are usually blue in colour. They are generally safe medicines with few side effects unless they are overused. It is important for every asthmatic to have a beta-2 agonist inhaler. If an asthmatic...

Asthma Part 1   Asthma is a long-term condition that can cause a cough, wheezing and breathlessness. The severity of the symptoms varies from person to person.   Causes                                                           With asthma, the airways become over-sensitive and react to stimuli that would normally not cause a problem, such as cold air or dust. Muscles around the wall of the airway tighten up, making it narrow and difficult for air to flow in and out. The lining of the airway’s swells, and sticky mucus is produced. This makes it difficult for air to move in and out. Tightening of muscle around...

Children Flu Vaccines   Flu vaccine for children Children are more likely than adults to get severe complications of flu. Children who are sick with flu miss days in crèche, childcare and school. They also miss out on their usual activities such as hobbies and sports. For the second year in Ireland, children aged 2 to 12 can get the nasal flu vaccine for free. The flu vaccine will help protect your child against flu and reduce the spread of flu to others. For example, their brothers and sisters, parents and grandparents.   The vaccine is given as a single spray in each nostril of...

Diabetes: Non-Pharmacological Treatment Options Part 2   Foods to restrict (Continued) White rice, pasta, and bread These are one of the worst foods you can consume if you are trying to regulate blood sugar level. This group of foods are refined starches and are made with white flour. These white carbohydrates are almost pure glucose and are recognised by your body as sugar once it begins to digest them. Opt for whole grains, like brown rice and pasta, porridge, high fibre cereals, and whole grain breads.   Fatty cuts of meat – While meat will not interact with your blood...