Asthma is a very serious issue in people of all ages, from teenagers to seniors. Not only should you regularly see a medical professional, but you should also keep an eye on certain triggers. This article contains several simple suggestions to help you better handle your asthma and lower the chances of an asthma attack.
Do not smoke around a child with asthma. Secondhand smoke is a leading cause of asthma. Any place where smoking is allowed should be avoided if you have a child with asthma.
If you are an asthmatic, it is vital that you never smoke, and if you already do, you should quit as soon as possible. Smoking is a terrible habit but it’s even worse for someone who suffers from asthma as it decreases the amount of oxygen that gets to your lungs.
If you have been diagnosed with asthma and you are a smoker, it is time to quit. Smoking is a terrible habit but it’s even worse for someone who suffers from asthma as it decreases the amount of oxygen that gets to your lungs.
It is imperative that you do your best to avoid cleaning chemicals if you are asthmatic. It is very possible that one might bring on an asthma attack with some chemicals used for cleaning. If you’re the one that cleans your home, try organic or natural cleaning solutions that are much less risky to your health.
Some medications are known to cause asthma symptoms. Aspirin and other NSAIDs are known to be asthma triggers. You can also use medications that can control high blood pressure and heart disease, things like beta blockers. Make sure you consult with your doctor concerning your asthma and possible drug reactions.
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Asthma is a disease that is ongoing and must be attended to every day. Be certain that you are using the right maintenance medicines to control your asthma and that you also have a rescue or emergency medication when you have an acute asthma attack. Discuss treatment strategies with both your primary care physician and your allergist.
Be aware of certain medications that can lead to asthma problems. Various NSAIDs and aspirin have been reported to do this. Some medications for blood pressure and heart disease – those referred to as beta blockers – can also exacerbate asthma problems. If you have asthma paired with heart disease or high blood pressure, tell your doctor.
When suffering a mild or even moderate asthma attack, attempt to push all air from your lungs. Exhale in a hard and fast manner. You want to force all of the air from your lungs. Then, follow three short intakes of breath with one longer inhalation until your lungs are filled with air, although not uncomfortably so. Finally, expel the air from your lungs with force again. This will create a rhythm and will help you be aware of the way you are breathing. Expelling the air from your lungs in this fashion also allows you to breathe in deeper. You may generate sputum or cough but that is alright, since your main objective is getting you to breathe normally again.
As a chronic disease, asthma must be managed continuously. You need to keep taking your medications to control the asthma symptoms every day, and if an attack should occur, you should have quick relief medication at your disposal. Speak with an allergist or your doctor to determine the best care for you.
Talk to your doctor about getting a leukotriene inhibitor if you have asthma. Leukotriene inhibitors are used to prevent things called leukotrienes. Leukotrienes are inflammation-causing chemicals that can bring on asthma attacks. If you get a leukotriene inhibitor, it can get rid of them in the air and help you with asthma symptoms.
You should always take asthma seriously. Take every precaution you can to keep your asthma in control, because asthma attacks can actually be lethal. So, carry an emergency inhaler with you at all times, or you can take precautions like making sure your house is always free of dirt and dust. It is possible to keep asthma under control with proper medication and the avoidance of certain substances.
If you have been diagnosed with asthma then you should avoid cigarettes and smokers like the plague. When you inhale tobacco smoke, you are severely increasing the likelihood of an asthma attack. This is especially true in small, confined areas with little to no ventilation.