Asthma can turn a normal life into a nightmare after that fateful first attack. But, you should realize that symptoms of asthma can be managed if you use some coping strategies and the right medicines. Read on to learn some coping strategies for asthmatics.
Asthma is a chronic condition, requiring constant health management. 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. A variety of options are available for the treatment of asthmatic attacks. Consult your doctor and an allergist.
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 not recommended for anyone, but it creates worse complications for asthma patients by cutting off part of the oxygen supply needed to breathe properly.
If you’re suffering from an asthma attack that’s moderate or mild, then work to force all the air you can from your lungs. When you breathe out, exhale the air quickly and as hard as you can. It can’t be said too strongly: you must force the air out! 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. It also expels air from your lungs so more can enter. It is okay that you cough up some sputum, you really want to breathe right again.
You should stay away from anything you might believe which can trigger an asthma attack. For many people, allergens such as dust and pollen can induce an attack. Some people get attacks after being physically active. Do your best to understand and figure what exactly triggers your asthma so that you know what you need to avoid.
If allergies lead to constant attacks from your asthma, there has been a recent solution that is administered via injection that provides long term care! There are antibody medications used to control allergic reactions that come recommended by allergists.
A lot of medications can trigger an asthma attack without you knowing. Some anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, can flare up asthma symptoms. Other medications that may have an effect on the respiratory system include beta blockers used to treat high blood pressure. Let your doctor know about your asthma and what prescriptions you’re taking.
Talk to a social worker if you have asthma and no health insurance. Social workers are often able to locate a hospital or clinic that can offer free or low cost options to make sure you can fill your medication prescriptions.
Asthma is a continuous disease that needs ongoing management. Be sure to take the correct medicines to keep your daily asthma symptoms under control, and always have emergency medication available in case an attack occurs. Speak with an allergist or your doctor to determine the best care for you.
Though it is easy to postpone or avoid, get those annual flu vaccinations. Keep yourself healthy, and without respiratory infections as best you can. This means taking every precaution possible, do things like getting vaccinated to prevent sickness to hand washing on a regular basis.
If you are having an attack that is not severe, push as much air out of the lungs as possible. Breathe out fast and hard. Forcefully push the air out from your lungs. Inhale three times with short breaths, and then on the fourth one take a deeper breath so your lungs are full of air but still comfortable. Then breath out as hard as you can again. This will force you to pay careful attention to all of your breaths. It also will push all of your air out of the lungs so that you can get more air in. You may generate sputum or cough but that is alright, since your main objective is getting you to breathe normally again.
Pay attention to your symptom triggers. The more aware of your triggers you become, the easier it will be to avoid them and reduce the number of attacks you suffer. Smoke, pollen, or pet dander are common triggers. Whenever you can, avoid the things that trigger your asthma.
Asthma sufferers should avoid smoking cigarettes and any place that has cigarette smoke. Refrain from smoking! It is also a good idea to stay away from the fumes or vapors from harsh chemicals, such as those used in cleaning. Inhaling these substances may trigger an unstoppable asthma attack. The minute you spot people smoking, immediately remove yourself from the area.
Join an online or offline support group. If you have asthma, it can stop you from participating in basic activities like sports, especially if the condition is severe. A support group will help you have a good time and forget about your condition once in a while, as well as as keep you informed about the latest innovations.
Always use your inhaler in the proper manner. An inhaler is most effective if used in a relaxed location and according to the maker’s instructions. The inhaler is only useful if the medication within it actually gets to your lungs. While inhaling air, spray required dosage in your mouth. Hold your breath for at least 10 seconds to allow the medicated mist to fill your lungs.
Mold and mildew grow in a home due to the humidity that creates a friendly environment for them. This stuff can easily set off an asthma attack. To halt the growth of mold and mildew keep your home’s humidity low. When it’s cold, a dehumidifier can keep moisture to a minimum; in hot months, your A/C unit will do the same thing.
Immune System
Be sure you understand how to use your asthma medication, especially emergency medication. Asthma is generally managed through regular medicine which is supplemented with rescue medications like inhalers. Because asthma has no cure, you must treat it carefully by taking your maintenance medication every day and using your emergency medication responsibly.
If you are dealing with asthma, make sure you take lots of Vitamins E and C. Both vitamins improve lung function, helping you to better resist asthma attacks and other negative symptoms. You can get both of these vitamins from eating certain foods, or by taking the vitamins in supplement form. These vitamins are great for your immune system, and a strong immune system wards off illnesses that can trigger asthma attacks.
Asthma is a medical condition that tends to slowly develop over time, and the symptoms are not always that obvious. People can even die from their very first asthma attack as they’re not prepared for it! It is advised that you seek out a medical professional if you ever have shortness of breath or experience constant coughing; this may be a sign that you suffer from asthma and need proper medication to prevent an asthma attack and keep your condition under control.
Asthma can be life threatening if not kept in check or left untreated. Protect yourself and have an inhaler on hand in case of an emergency; stay away from allergies. Take the tips you have read here and apply them to your own condition so you can conquer your asthma, and prevent it from diminishing your freedom.
When you are removing dust or crumbs from your floor, you should use a vacuum or damp mop to avoid scattering dust in the air. Sweeping can trigger an asthma attack due to the copious clouds of minute asthma-triggering particles it kicks up. Dusting with a damp cloth rather than a feather duster can be a considerable help in reducing the amount of dust and other things that might start an attack.