Asthma is a disease that can easily go out of control if left unchecked. Attacks can be serious, even fatal, unless they are controlled. Along with advice you get from medical experts, it is also important to do research on your own. Here are a few easy tips to help you get a handle on your asthma symptoms.
Asthmatics should not smoke. If you smoke – quit immediately. While smoking is bad for everyone, it’s particularly hard on an asthma sufferer as it restricts oxygen getting to the lungs.
Ensure your child is never around smoke to handle their asthma. One leading cause of issues in children who have asthma is that people smoke around them. Keep your child away from cigarette smoke and any other kind of fumes.
Avoid those things that you know can trigger your asthma. Many asthma suffers find that dust or pollen can trigger an attack. Others have asthma attacks when they participate in physical activities. Do your best to understand and figure what exactly triggers your asthma so that you know what you need to avoid.
Know situations and conditions that cause asthma attacks for you, and stay away from them in the future as much as possible. This is different for everyone, but some people, things like dust or pollen can trigger an attack. Or, you may need to avoid certain activities that overexert your body. Knowing exactly what sets off your asthma is thus, very important.
If you are having trouble preventing asthma attacks, you may find success with a leukotriene inhibitor. It works to prevent leukotrienes. Leukotrienes are molecules that cause the tracheal muscles to contract; having too many leukotrienes makes asthma attacks more likely. The inhibitor will keep the leukotrienes from forming, which can reduce the frequency of asthma attacks that you experience.
Social Worker
Know how to use your inhaler correctly. Find a spot that is out of the way, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to the letter. Your inhaler will only help if you breathe very deeply. Spray the stated dose of medicine into your mouth as you inhale. After inhaling, it’s important that you hold the medication in by holding your breath for 10 seconds at the least.
If you have asthma that is not covered by health insurance, contact someone in a government agency, like a social worker. You will need asthma medications, and if you are unable to afford them, a social worker can find a hospital or clinic that can offer you medication for free or for a little cost.
Always choose unscented products for your home if you have asthma. Scented products should be avoided, such as air fresheners, perfume, and incense. These can increase the amount of air pollution in the home and even trigger an attack. Fresh paint and new carpeting give off odors that can irritate sensitive airways. Keep your indoor air clean and free of pollutants to stay healthy.
Both Vitamin C and Vitamin E are important if you suffer from asthma. These vitamins aid in improving the function of the lungs and controlling the symptoms of asthma. It is possible to acquire the necessary amounts by eating foods or by taking dietary supplements. These vitamins also help boost your immune system, which helps to prevent illnesses that trigger asthma.
Regular flu shots are important if you or one of your children suffer from asthma. Get yearly vaccinations to keep these potential infections at bay.
If you’re having asthma problems, a dehumidifier is a beneficial purchase. Lowering humidity will reduce the amount of dust mites in your home, and help your asthma improve. Dehumidifiers eliminate your home’s humidity, leaving dry air.
When you are traveling, be sure to carry your rescue inhaler with you at all times. Traveling can put additional strain on your body, making you more susceptible to asthma triggers. You can’t exert as much control over your environment when you travel, so you may have an asthma attack or exacerbation of symptoms under unfamiliar conditions.
Receiving a flu shot annually is very important if you or a loved one are asthmatic. Regular vaccinations will help you and your children to avoid lung infections.
Bundle up during winter weather if you have asthma. Covering your nose and mouth with a scarf or muffler helps prevent asthma attacks. This helps warm the air prior to it entering your lungs. In multiple studies, breathing cold air is linked to increased asthma attacks. This link is especially pronounced in younger children.
If you suffer from asthma, consider using a feather-free pillow to sleep. Feather can decrease lung function and trigger asthma symptoms. Also, make sure your other bedding is made with hypoallergenic materials.
Using your preventative inhaler should be done daily. It’s important to know, though, that it can cause sores and infections near your gums and teeth. You can prevent these side effects with proper tooth brushing and gargling after you use your inhaler.
The more humid your home is, the easier it is for mildew and mold to grow. These are harmful substances that can trigger asthma attacks. Try, then, to ensure your home is dry. During winter, use a device to dehumidify in the winter, and air condition in the summer.
Monitor how many times, on a weekly basis, you are using your rescue inhaler. If you use it more than two times, your asthma might not be well-controlled or you may have unusual occurrences causing those frequent attacks. The frequency of use of your inhaler can give you an idea about your surroundings and the need to watch them.
Asthma is an uncurable disease, but that doesn’t mean that the symptoms are permanent and can’t go away. However, just like most things in life, overcoming your asthma symptoms takes time and effort. If you follow these easy tips, you’ll find that your symptoms will get better over time and you’ll be able to enjoy a healthier, more active lifestyle.
When you clean house, it is recommended that you clean your floor with a wet mop instead of sweeping it. Sweeping your floor can kick allergens into the air, triggering an asthma attack. 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.