The COVID19 pandemic has taken our country by storm. While the most vulnerable people are those with morbidities and the elderly, the virus can be particularly troubling for those with Asthma.

Symptoms of COVID19 may be more severe and may lead to poor outcomes if people with Asthma get infected.

It is important to know that currently there is no evidence of increased infection rates in those with Asthma.

Firstly, people with Asthma need to continue taking their prescribed medications to prevent exacerbations of their Asthma.

Secondly, it is vital for patients with Asthma to reduce airway inflammation and minimize the risk of exacerbations as much as possible.

Thirdly, recognize different Asthma triggers and stay alert when the symptoms are getting worse. This can help patients identify when to call the doctor if they’re getting sick.

Wear a mask.

With the second wave raging upon us with full force, wearing a mask is the most effective way to protect ourselves.

It is especially important to wear a mask if:

• You are coughing or have other respiratory symptoms
• You have been exposed to someone who may have COVID-19
• You have a family member who is sick

Dispose off the surgical mask after use. If you use an N-95 mask, then it is important to use it in an appropriate manner, and make sure it is properly fitted.

Be extremely careful with nebulizers.

Nebulizers are said to be very effective for treating Asthma symptoms, but it aerosolizes droplets from the airways, which are then spread into the air.

This allows viruses or other microbes to be transmitted by the nebulizer.

In this way, the risk of infection spread by droplets is increased as the nebulizer may send droplets further than they would naturally go through breathing.

There is no evidence that COVID-19 leads to the development of Asthma in people.

However, many patients having a long-term impact of COVID may experience respiratory problems for a few months even after recovery.

Scientists and medical professionals are looking for different ways and means to contain the situation.

There are some studies that suggest medical inhalers used by asthmatic patients can reduce the replication of SARS-CoV-2 in Lung cells and limit the risk of hospitalization in COVID patients.

According to the study conducted by the University of Oxford, a common drug used to treat Asthma can help fasten the process of recovery in COVID19 patients.

Another study published in The Lancet journal found that inhaled Glucocorticoids can reduce the risk of severe COVID and hospitalization.

However, a clinical trial is underway, and we need to wait until conclusive data is evidenced.

Well, some symptoms are similar between these respiratory illnesses. However, COVID has some typical symptoms including:

• Fever
• Chills
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or trouble breathing
• Feeling tired and weak
• Muscle or body aches
• Headache
• New loss of taste or smell
• Sore throat
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting
• Pinkeye
• Painful blue or Purple lesions (such as a sore or bruise on toes also called as COVID toes)
• Hives or rashes

If you have a fever and a cough or notice increased use of your inhaler medications, call your doctor.

(Dr Anshu Punjabi is a Consultant-Pulmonologist & Sleep Medicine Expert at Fortis Hospital, Mulund)