For the millions of men, women, and children who have difficulty breathing as a result of asthma, even the simplest physical task may seem daunting. Fortunately, there are a variety of treatment options that can take the fear out of everyday living. The ideas here for how to handle asthma can give you some piece of mind.
Figure out what type of asthma you are suffering with. When you know in-depth information about your asthma, you can figure out how to fight against it. Asthma caused by exercise can be treated easily if you carry an inhaler when you go to the gym. Knowing when an asthma attack is likely to strike can help you avert disaster.
If you suffer from asthma and you smoke, it’s crucial that you quit. Although smoking is bad for all people, it is especially worse for asthma patients because it cuts off the oxygen supply that you need in order for your lungs to function and keep away asthma attacks.
Those with asthma should always opt for unscented items because they are safest. Products with a strong smell such as air fresheners, incense or perfume can trigger asthma attacks. Fresh pain and new carpet also let off odors that are irritable to the airways. As much as possible, try to keep your home filled with fresh, pure air.
Lower the chances of asthma attacks by keeping a spotless home, particularly in the areas where you sleep. Refrain from smoking inside the home, and keep edibles inside your kitchen. Once you have cleaned your house, air it out; you should also eliminate utilizing any toxic chemicals inside.
If you’ve been diagnosed with asthma, be sure to get flu shots every year. This is doubly important for asthmatic children. Make sure your child’s vaccinations are up-to-date to avoid as many infections as possible.
Asthma Symptoms
Make sure you know what triggers asthma attacks so you can either avoid those triggers or be prepared to manage your asthma symptoms. Common asthma triggers include pollen, smoke or dander. If at all possible, strive to avoid substances and locations that trigger your asthma symptoms or attacks.
If you are asthmatic, it may be a good idea to use a pillow that is not filled with feathers. Feathers can trigger asthma symptoms and reduce lung function. Also, make sure your other bedding is made with hypoallergenic materials.
Keep your medication with you, especially when you are traveling. Traveling to places can strain your body, and it is more vulnerable to asthma triggers when it is under strain. Traveling can make asthma symptoms worse, and it is difficult, nearly impossible to control environmental triggers during travel.
Even if you seem to be fine, see your doctor regularly for your asthma checkups. Asthma can flare-up at any time, and you never know, perhaps your doctor has safer or better medications which can help your symptoms.
Join an online or offline support group. Asthma, especially severe asthma, can be a debilitating condition and prevent you from participating fully in daily life. If you know other asthma sufferers, you can stay up to date on the latest medicines and treatment options.
Now that you know the basic treatment options for asthma, you can either ask your doctor about them yourself or support a loved one in his or her search for effective treatment. You can use this information for you or someone you care about, and you should realize that the diagnosis of asthma does not mean your life as you know it is over.