According to the CDC, 1 in 13 people have asthma. Those are staggering numbers. What is even more shocking is that asthma affects both adults and children. However, asthma is the leading chronic disease in children. Over 6.2 million children currently live with asthma, while over 19 million adults suffer from asthma. There are cases in which children outgrow the disease by the time they reach adulthood, but this is not always the case. For others, they do not develop asthma until later in life.

Asthma is more common in boys than girls, but surprisingly when it comes to adults it is more prevalent in women than men. The reason is thought to be the change of hormones that girls go through during puberty that makes them more susceptible to asthma than men. This is your guide to what asthma is, current popular treatments, and innovative chest physiotherapy for asthmatic patients.

What is Asthma?

There is no doubt that you are well accustomed to hearing the word asthma. If you are not an asthma sufferer, more than likely someone you know is or you've worked with or gone to school with people who have asthma. It is so common that most people do not give a second thought as to how serious and disruptive the disease actually is.

Asthma is a disease of the respiratory system that makes it difficult to effectively and efficiently move air in and out of the lungs. Those who suffer from asthma have inflamed airways. Asthma triggers such as dust, pet dander, or smoke cause the airways to become even more swollen making it difficult to breathe. 

Asthma is a chronic, serious, and potentially fatal disease. There is no cure for asthma, but there are ways to effectively manage asthma so adults and children can live a normal life. It is important to understand that there are varying degrees of asthma. While one person may have only mild asthma attacks another may have attacks so severe that the airway is completely closed off if not treated quickly.

Most medications for asthmas are taken through a nebulizer or inhaler that is administered straight into the lungs. This is the form of treatment most people associate with the thought of asthma. There are different types of asthma treatments including corticosteroids which reduce airway swelling and mucus and beta-agonists that open the airways. Other medications may also be prescribed in conjunction with inhalers and nebulizers. The course of treatment depends on the specific needs and circumstances of the patient.

A revolutionary treatment, known as chest physiotherapy treatment for asthma can improve the quality of life of those who suffer from asthma. This type of treatment can also be used in conjunction with traditional medications.

What is Chest Physiotherapy?

Chest physiotherapy, also known as chest physical therapy are treatments aimed towards improving respiratory function by removing thick secretions in the airways, promoting ease of breathing, and preventing infections. The end goal of chest physiotherapy is to strengthen the respiratory muscles and help patients breathe more freely by circulating larger amounts of oxygen throughout the body. Larger amounts of oxygen being carried through the body help to improve respiratory function.

Studies show that chest physiotherapy has positive effects on asthma patients and improves the overall health and quality of life of these individuals. It is important to understand that chest physical therapy is not just one specific treatment, but rather a group of treatments that collectively help patients reach their goal. A patient may undergo one technique or multiple techniques depending on what is projected to give them the best outcome. In most cases, chest physiotherapy is used in conjunction with traditional treatments such as corticosteroids.

Chest Physiotherapy Techniques

There are several techniques involved with chest physiotherapy. Each one performs a specific technique. Let's take a look at how the 5 most commonly used techniques help asthmatic patients and those with pulmonary disorders. Keep in mind that your physiotherapist will determine what the best course of treatment is for you, your situation, and your ultimate goals.

1. Bronchial Drainage

This technique uses gravity to help with postural drainage. There are 12 different positions that can be used, and the position of choice depends on the specific patient's needs.

2. Percussion

Percussion is a technique that removes secretions from the tracheal bronchial tree. When the patient is properly percussed there will be a distinct popping sound.

3. Vibration

This technique is also known as the shaking technique and is used to loosen up mucus and secretions in the airways. Once loosened, the secretions can either be expelled through coughing or removed by suction.

4. Positive Expiratory Pressure (PEP)

This is an airway clearing technique that involves a mechanical device that is placed against the mouth. This method helps keep the airways open.

5. Flutter

This technique is a manual device that helps loosen up the secretions in the airways. This method combines positive pressure and airway oscillations to break away stubborn mucus from the walls of the airway.

Chest Physiotherapy Treatment

Living with asthma certainly has its challenges. It is also a manageable disease that can still result in living life to the fullest. The first step is to invest in and take care of yourself. Chest physiotherapy is a great way to aid in the management of asthma or other pulmonary disorders. Choosing the right physiotherapist is the second step.

CK Physiotherapy in London is able to assist you with chest physiotherapy treatment. Our therapists are dedicated to providing the most thorough treatment possible to all of our patients. Upon arrival, you can expect a thorough physical examination, including a full medical history. Your physiotherapist will then devise a custom plan based on the findings. 

At home, recommendations will be made to help facilitate recovery. At each appointment, progress will be evaluated and any adjustments to the treatment plan made. Contact us today for more information or to schedule your first appointment.