Asthma is an illness that can spiral out of control when left unchecked. Asthma attacks may be harsh and in some cases, even fatal. It is important to consult with physicians, though there are additional things you can do to help your own situation. This article offers simple tips that will help you relieve and improve your asthma symptoms.
If you have received a diagnosis of asthma, you are not to smoke or be near vapors or other types of fumes. This includes all tobacco products, and you also need to be careful if you are going to apply for a job in a factory or where you have the potential to be exposed to vapors and harmful smoke.
Do you know what sub-type of asthma you’re plagued with? Being aware of your particular asthma condition can help you to effectively treat it on a daily basis. People suffering from asthma that is exercise-induced, for example, had best be prepared for asthma attacks at the gym! Knowing when an asthma attack is likely to strike can help you avert disaster.
It is very important that an asthma sufferer refrain from smoking, if you do then it is advisable you quit now. Smoking is unhealthy for anyone, but it is especially dangerous for someone with asthma. This is because your lungs and airway are already compromised by your condition.
Asthma Attack
There are medications that can unknowingly cause asthma-like symptoms. Examples of medications that may contribute to asthma are aspirin and other NSAIDs. This can also be caused by beta blockers, like medications that are used in managing high blood pressure or heart problems. If you suffer from any of these conditions along with your asthma, make sure you tell your doctor.
Avoid exposing yourself to any of your known asthma triggers. Allergens such as dust and pollen can bring on an asthma attack at any time. Some things, such as physical exertion, can cause an asthma attack. Try to see what cause your asthma so that you can avoid it.
When you are having a difficult time with asthma, you might want to use a leukotriene inhibitor. A leukotriene inhibitor is for the prevention of leukotrienes. Leukotrienes has a hand in causing swelling and inflammation in your lungs, and may trigger a asthma attack. The inhibitor will prevent leukotrienes, which can decrease the amount of asthma attacks that you have.
There are some medications out there that you could be taking which will actually trigger your asthma symptoms. Believe it or not, something as seemingly innocuous as aspirin can actually trigger symptoms. Also, beta blockers, such as medicines used to control heart disease and high blood pressure. Make sure you consult with your doctor concerning your asthma and possible drug reactions.
If your health insurance situation cannot help you with your asthma, talk to a social worker. Asthma patients need their medications, and a social worker might be able to hook you up with programs to help you such as clinics and programs through pharmaceutical companies.
Unfortunately, asthma sufferers must realize that their condition is chronic which requires ongoing treatment. Your doctor may prescribe medications that must be taken daily. In addition, you will likely have medication to take in the event of an attack. Speak to your allergist and doctor to see what they recommend for you.
An annual flu vaccination is highly recommended for yourself and your family. People who have been diagnosed with asthma should exercise extreme diligence in avoiding other respiratory conditions. Making sure to consistently wash your hands, and getting the proper vaccinations are two standard precautions.
If you are dealing with asthma, you would benefit from buying a dehumidifier. When your home has less humidity, there are less dust mites, and that minimizes the chances of an asthma flare-up. Dehumidifiers keep the air in your home dry by eliminating humidity.
If you suffer from asthma, ensure that your diet contains adequate amounts of Vitamin E and Vitamin C. There is some evidence that these two vitamins can improve breathing and lower the frequency of asthma attacks. Many foods have these vitamins in abundance, but you can also use a supplemental pill. You can help out your immune system that can help stave off asthma triggers!
Asthma Treatment
If you have asthma, try to avoid smokers, even if you do not smoke. 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.
Stand ready for a boost to your asthma treatment should you suffer from illnesses like colds or hay fever. Side effects that are associated with most illnesses can serve as triggers for asthma and may cause an increase in your asthma treatment. It is possible your doctor will want to add additional therapies to your treatment program until you are back on your feet.
When you are suffering from asthma and you have hay fever or a cold, you will most likely need an increase in your treatment. The side effects of many illnesses can flare up your asthma so bad that you have to have an increase in treatment. You might even get a new treatment added onto our existing program until the illness subsides.
Make regular asthma checkups with your doctor, even if you are not having any issues come up. Your health care provider may have new prescriptions that could benefit you in case the need arises.
Be certain you are aware of all your asthma attack triggers so you know both how to steer clear of them and also be ready to take care of your symptoms. Most with asthma share common triggers, like pet dander, pollen or smoke. Whenever you can, stay away from these agents that can trigger symptoms or cause full-blown asthma attacks.
Humidity in your home causes an environment where mildew and mold are more likely to grow. Mold and mildew can easily cause severe asthma attacks. Therefore, it is important to maintain a dry home. When you use the heater in the winter, be sure to have a dehumidifier control the humidity in your home. During the summer time, be sure to use the air conditioner to maintain a dry home.
Avoid cold-induced asthma attacks by protecting your mouth and nose with a scarf. Proper winter wear can keep cold air from agitating your lungs. Cold air can be a nuisance and breathing it has actually proven to trigger asthma attacks. This is especially true for younger children who have severe or moderate asthma.
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.
For a deeper and more thorough cleaning, mop your floors instead of simply sweeping them. Sweeping sends dust and dander back into the air and could trigger an asthma attack. A damp rag should be used when dusting because a feather duster can cause dust to kick up and lead to an asthma attack.