MADURAI
“There is a rising prevalence of asthma-related cases in Madurai due to several factors. Though the primary reason is prevalence of infection, it is now categorised as a lifestyle disease,” said S. Harikrishnan, Consultant Pulmonologist, Apollo Speciality Hospitals.
In order to address the growing issue of asthma and other major respiratory ailments, Apollo Speciality Hospitals inaugurated the ‘Difficult to Treat’ Asthma Clinic, here on Wednesday.
The doctor added that the role of environmental exposure played a key role in the rising numbers.
“Exposure to aeroallergens, indoor and outdoor air pollution, endotoxin, smoking and viral infections and reduction in number of breastfeeding mothers are definite causes of alarming numbers. Scientific studies indicate too many different ways of tobacco smoke affect asthma,” he said.
However, Rohini Sridhar, Chief Operating Officer, Apollo Speciality Hospitals, says that asthma can be easily contained through treatment and therapy.
“Once asthma is properly controlled by a treatment regimen, the medication dose should be progressively reduced to the minimum required to maintain disease control,” she says.
K. Bharathi Babu, Consultant Pulmonologist, says that though asthma frequently occurs among young children, adequate doses of medication through minimally invasive treatment like usage of inhalers should help in curtailing the infection.
The specialists said that the outpatient clinic would treat patients with all respiratory infections, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and respiratory problems caused by heart-related issues. A team of doctors would be stationed to address emergency cases, said Dr. Babu.
This clinic will be open on weekdays and on Saturdays, he added.