It can be hard to suffer through asthma attacks and know that this will happen to you from time to time for the rest of your life. However, when you understand how to cope with your asthma, you can live a fuller and happier life. Keep reading to discover ways you can manage asthma and live better for it.
It is crucial for asthma sufferers not to smoke. Smoking is horrible for people, it is really bad if asthma becomes worse and blocks oxygen to your body, you need oxygen to work and stave off asthma.
Do you know what sub-type of asthma you’re plagued with? Being aware of your specific condition will help you combat the effects it has over your body day in and day out. If your asthma is triggered by exercise, throw an inhaler into your gym bag. When you know what triggers your asthma, you will be more prepared to stop attacks before they begin.
Learn what triggers your asthma so that you can avoid it. Asthma triggers will vary greatly between individuals. If you have allergy related asthma, you will want to avoid pollen and dust. For others, physical activities can cause them. Determine what sets your asthma off so you can stay away from these things.
Asthma is not a curable disease and will require life-long health management. Take the proper medications for controlling your asthma daily, and keep quick relief medication somewhere on you just in case you have a sudden attack. Discuss treatment strategies with both your primary care physician and your allergist.
Some medications can exacerbate asthma symptoms as a side effect. Examples of medications that may contribute to asthma are aspirin and other NSAIDs. Some medications can cause your asthma to be worse such as beta blockers for high blood pressure or heart disease. If you suffer from any of these conditions along with your asthma, make sure you tell your doctor.
Get annual flu vaccinations for your entire family. Make sure you do your best in avoiding respiratory infections at all costs if you have asthma. This means you should also be sure to wash your hands frequently and get vaccinated.
It is always a problem if you have asthma and don’t have health insurance, but talking to a social worker may help you resolve this issue. You must have the ability to afford your medication, so a social worker might be able to locate a hospital or clinic that can offer them at little cost or free.
If you suffer from asthma, make sure that you consume enough Vitamin C and Vitamin E. Since both of these have been attributed to better function of the lungs, they also help to control the symptoms of asthma. You are able to get these vitamins either from food or a supplement. The vitamins can help to boost the immune system, which will help you to stay healthy and less ill, which means you will have less asthma attacks.
Ask everyone in your family to get a flu shot every year. Do everything you can to avoid a respiratory infection if you have asthma. This includes taking standard precautions against illness, like hand washing, as well as getting vaccinations that can keep you from getting sick.
If you use any more than four kinds of cleaning product around your home, then the risk of an asthma attack is increased. To limit the chemicals in the air, look for organic cleaning alternatives.
Asthma sufferers should take Vitamins E and C. These vitamins make lungs function better and keep symptoms of asthma under control. You can take these vitamins in pill form, or you can eat fresh fruits and vegetables and get the vitamins that way. These vitamins also help boost your immune system, which helps to prevent illnesses that trigger asthma.
Hay Fever
If you use any more than four kinds of cleaning product around your home, then the risk of an asthma attack is increased. Opt for organic cleaning products that do not contain irritating chemicals.
Hay fever and colds can worsen asthma symptoms so prepare to need increased treatments. Make sure your doctor prescribes a fast acting inhaler for emergency situations. Your doctor may prescribe a new medicine or change the dose of your existing medication until the hay fever or cold passes.
For asthma sufferers, the unscented option is always the best choice among different products. Use of scented products, such as perfume, air fresheners and incense, increase the levels of indoor air pollution and can trigger an attack. Put down some new carpeting and throw up a coat of paint to get rid of indoor odors. Take all necessary measures to ensure that your home is always filled with fresh, clean air.
Even if you seem to be fine, see your doctor regularly for your asthma checkups. You cannot be certain when you will next have an issue with your asthma, or when there may be a better medication available to utilize for your condition.
Sleep with a feather-less pillow if you have asthma. Feathers can aggravate symptoms of asthma and lower lung function. Be sure to keep the same advice in mind for your bedclothes. They should be made from materials that do not increase allergy symptoms.
Look for a support group, such as an online community or a local group. Many people who suffer from asthma are unable to live a full life. By joining a support group, you will be able to discuss new scientific breakthroughs or treatment alternatives with those who are interested.
Take your rescue inhaler and keep it handy when you travel. Traveling to different places might expose you to unexpected triggers, as your body is put under more strain when you travel. You also have little control over your environment when traveling, which can make you more susceptible to an attack and symptoms of greater severity.
Know the right way to take your asthma medication, and above all any rescue medication. Typical asthma treatment includes regular medicine supplemented by a rescue inhaler. It’s important to use both forms of medication properly to treat your chronic condition.
Even if your asthma seems like it is under control, always keep your asthma appointments with the doctor. A flare-up can occur at any time, and your physician may have learned of a prescription medication that can treat your symptoms more safely and effectively.
If you are taking your prescriptions with you on a flight, make sure to take your prescription. Written proof of needing your equipment can help you with any issues you might have in the security line.
A support group can offer empathy and information about new treatments and medication. If you have asthma, it can stop you from participating in basic activities like sports, especially if the condition is severe. As science marches on, new medications and treatments for asthma become available, and you can keep abreast of this progress through a good support group.
If you have asthma, don’t stop using your inhaler unless your doctor tells you to. However, watch for infections in your gums or other mouth discomfort after using your inhaler. You can prevent these side effects with proper tooth brushing and gargling after you use your inhaler.
When it’s colder, wear a shawl, scarf or muffler that will cover your mouth and nose to avoid asthma attacks. This way, the air will be warm before entering your lungs. Studies have consistently shown that cold air can cause your throat and lungs to constrict, triggering asthma attacks. Children are especially susceptible to cold-induced asthma.
If you have asthma consider staying away from pets or animals. Having an allergy to dander or animal hair could be possible asthma complications, even sufferers free of these kinds of allergies could still have an asthma attack that is caused by pollen and dust animals seem to carry around with them.
Inhalers are important to use every day, but be aware that inhalers have been known to cause infections near the teeth and gums. Immediately brush your teeth followed by a quick gargle after using your inhaler. This is a great way to prevent any kind of complications in your mouth.
All asthma sufferers must be able to handle it. Once you are educated about asthma, you will be better able to manage your condition. The understanding and treatment of asthma has advanced and information in this article will help improve the quality of your life.
During the week, you should take note each time your rescue inhaler is used. If you are using it more than twice, your asthma may not be as well-controlled as you think or you may be experiencing unusual circumstances bringing on more frequent attacks. The frequency of use of your inhaler can give you an idea about your surroundings and the need to watch them.