Breathe Easier
One of the most critical steps in treating asthma is to avoid flare-ups and attacks by minimizing triggers. Those with asthma have a highly sensitive airway, which means that they are more susceptible to triggers. By understanding and avoiding these triggers, you can take control of your condition and reduce the risk of flare-ups.
Asthma Triggers Inside and Outside the Home
A number of household factors may worsen or trigger a mild or severe asthma attack. These include pet fur and dandruff. If you have asthma, getting a pet may not be in your best health interest.
Watch out for mold in warm, moist environments such as the kitchen, bathroom and basement. Mold can present a serious threat to those with asthma.
Regular vacuuming and dusting can reduce dust mites in the home. Dust mites have long been known to trigger asthma attacks.
Avoid keeping your house too cold. Cold air, inside or out, can cause a flare-up. Similarly, avoid frigid air, dust, molds and pollens when enjoying the outdoors.
How Mental and Physical Health Affects Asthma
Chronic and acute stress are hard on our health. Stress can cause health complications. Emotional stress can cause an asthma attack. By managing your overall stress, you can help manage your health and your asthma.
Along with the many, many other reasons to quit smoking, know that cigarette smoking is terrible for those with asthma or those they live with.
We all know that regular exercise is key to living well, but for those with asthma, finding the balance between physical activity and an asthma attack can be tricky. While vigorous exercise may trigger an asthma flare, the benefits of exercise outweigh the risks. Those with asthma can enjoy an active lifestyle by choosing the proper exercise at the right intensity and with the benefits of regular and emergency medications. Don't let asthma hold you back from staying active and healthy.
During cold and flu season, do your best to protect yourself from respiratory infections, including COVID-19. Avoid large crowds and those who are sick, and consider wearing a mask when out and about. Some medications, such as aspirin, may not work well for those with asthma. Talk to your doctor about your asthma and any medications you may need to take.
Track Your Asthma
Consider the benefits of keeping an asthma journal. Track things like what medications you are using, how often you need to use emergency asthma medications and when you have flare-ups and attacks. When flare-ups arise, record as much information as possible. Include where the symptoms came up, the weather conditions, how you felt before the attack and any other relevant information.
Talk to your healthcare team about using an airflow meter. This device measures how well air moves in and out of your lungs, providing a clear picture of your asthma condition. By tracking your asthma using this device and recording the results in your asthma journal, you can gain valuable insights into your condition and make informed decisions about your health.
Asthma Treatments
Managing and avoiding situations and conditions that may aggravate your asthma is one tool in your toolbox. As with other diseases, manage your weight through regular activity and sound nutrition. Engage in other healthy lifestyle habits such as meditation, regular high-quality sleep and avoiding alcohol.
Many with asthma only require a relief inhaler. This inhaler is used only when symptoms arise during a flare-up or attack. These inhalers offer immediate relief from asthma symptoms, so most with asthma carry their inhalers at all times.
Others with asthma rely on daily medications such as corticosteroids and broncho dilators. Corticosteroids reduce inflammation in the airways, while broncho dilators help open the airways. Other medications include injections as well as biologic medicines, which are designed to target specific immune system pathways involved in asthma.
Talk to your doctor about which medications may be proper for you, and be sure to bring your asthma journal with you each time you discuss your health. Many individuals with asthma change the dosage and types of medications that are right for them during their lifetime.