A new study finds that older adults with asthma are five times more likely to die from this chronic condition, compared to younger patients. And medical complications are more common among seniors with asthma, researchers concluded.

A respiratory condition that inflames the lungs and interferes with breathing, asthma can also be a serious condition in children if it is left unmanageable or untreated. Poorly controlled and undiagnosed asthma in children can result in trips to the emergency room and even hospital stays. Asthmatic episodes can take their toll on older Americans as well. More people 65 and older are being diagnosed with asthma, new studies have found.

Asthma medicines, such as those taken by inhalers, are very safe and effective when used as directed. But there are common asthma triggers that can be avoided at home, in the office and in public places. Avoidance of these triggers can prevent trips to the ER or serious episodes for both children and adults.

"If you or a family member has asthma, you can manage it with the help of your health care provider and by avoiding triggers," says Javier Hiriart, M.D., a pediatrician and physician with Baptist Health Primary Care, Family Medicine Center at West Kendall Baptist Hospital.

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[Transcript]

[Baptist Health Primary Care, Baptist Health Medical Group]

[Javier Hiriart, M.D., Primary Care Physician]
[Dr. Javier Hiriart]
Hello. I'm Dr. Javier Hiriart here with Baptist Health Primary Care Family Medicine Center at West Kendall Baptist Hospital.

[Asthma and Smoke]

[Dr. Javier Hiriart]
Tobacco smoke is one of the most common asthma triggers. Tobacco smoke, including secondhand smoke, is unhealthy for everyone, especially people with asthma. If you have asthma it's important that you avoid exposure to secondhand smoke. If you, or a family member, has asthma you can manage it with the help of your healthcare provider, and by avoiding triggers.

[Asthma And Allergies]

[Dr. Javier Hiriart]
Sometimes asthma attacks can be triggered by allergies. To determine if an allergic reaction to a substance has caused an asthma attack doctors can perform tests that look for antibodies. Attacks can also be triggered by respiratory infections, such as the common cold. If you're suffering from a cold make sure you monitor your breathing. If you are experiencing any asthma symptoms contact your primary care physician to engage in an action plan that works for you.

[Asthma And Dust]

[Dr. Javier Hiriart]
There are certain triggers that make allergies, or asthma worse, and dust is one of them. You can do many things in your home to limit you, or your child's, exposure to dust and dust mites. Replace blinds that have cloth draperies and replace it with pull down shades. Get rid of fabric, or upholstered furniture, replace wall-to-wall carpet with wood or other hard flooring. Change AC filters frequently. Contact your primary care physician to learn more about what triggers affect you.

[Baptist Health Primary Care, Baptist Health Medical Group]
[BaptistHealth.net/PrimaryCare]

[End Transcript]

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