Many in UAE don't know how to deal with asthma attacks

Doctors have warned that asthma attacks are increasing every year and many parents and adults are unaware of how to handle an allergic episode. As the UAE marks World Asthma Day on Tuesday, doctors say there are many factors involved when someone has an attack. The Government Hospital, Al Baraha, is organising events this Friday evening at Al Mamzar Park for parents, and on May 8 at the hospital for the public. "About 20 per cent of the children in the UAE suffer from some symptoms of asthma," said Dr Osama Attarbashi, consultant paediatrician at Al Baraha. This is high compared to other countries across the world. "Many people are unaware [of] how to deal with asthma attacks among children," he said. Dr Esther Jacob, a paediatrician and asthma expert, said by the time parents try to stop the cough it turns into a wheezing episode which is much harder to bring under control. She said devices were expensive which may be the reason why there are so many patients who do not follow the treatment. She said it was a long-term treatment and that many parents discontinued the medication either because they forgot or the child refused to take it. Dr Jacob said there were many reasons for the increase in asthma and they ranged from environmental pollution, food and genetics to the weather. According to WHO, the reasons for asthma attacks include breathing in second-hand smoke, dust mites in bedding, indoor allergens and pets. Other triggers include cold air, extreme emotional arousal such as anger or fear and physical exercise. Even certain medication such as those for high blood pressure, heart conditions and migraine can cause asthma, the health organisation notes. "Dubai [and the UAE are] global cities [attracting people from across the globe] and you see asthma incidents among various age groups," said Dr Attarbashi. He said the affliction can be controlled with medication and about 50 per cent of children outgrow the condition. "A good control is needed to lead a normal life," he said, noting that episodes lead to a loss of work and school days as well as a loss in the amount of play time for children.