Asthma can be an especially frightening condition because of the way it makes it difficult to get the air you need to survive. Not only does an attack usually occur suddenly, it can be fatal and constantly limits your quality of life. Read this article to gain some understanding of the causes behind asthma attacks and what to do to manage your asthma. You can learn to manage your asthma rather than letting it control the range of activities you choose to participate in.
You should not smoke or be anywhere near smoke if you suffer from asthma. This means avoidance of all tobacco products, as well as taking into consideration any smoke or vapors you might be exposed to in a prospective workplace.
An important part of symptom management is knowing what type of asthma you have. Being aware of your particular asthma condition can help you to effectively treat it on a daily basis. For example, if you have exercise-induced asthma, you will want to always make sure you have an inhaler in your gym bag. Treating asthma is less difficult if you and your physician are aware of the triggers that bring on an attack.
It is vital that neither you, nor anyone else, smoke around a child with asthma. Secondhand smoke can actually cause asthma to appear. You also need to be sure that your child isn't around those that choose to smoke.
If you suffer from asthma, it is critical that you not smoke. Smoking is unhealthy for anyone, regardless of their health; however, when you have asthma, smoking restricts the oxygen your lungs needs to breathe and function properly. If your lung function is affected, you run the risk of having more frequent attacks.
Avoid exposing yourself to any of your known asthma triggers. For many, allergens like dust and pollen, can trigger their attacks. Others may have attacks that are triggered by physical activity. You need to determine what your triggers are so that you can avoid them.
A lot of medications can trigger an asthma attack without you knowing. Aspirin along with other NSAIDs can have this effect. The medication you take for high blood pressure can also cause asthma symptoms. Let your doctor know about your asthma and what prescriptions you're taking.
If you are suffering from a moderate or mild attack, do your best to force as much air out of the lungs as possible. Exhale quickly and hard. You want to force all of the air 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 method forces you to pay close attention to your breathing and create a steady rhythm. It also allows you to take in more air by completely emptying your lungs. You might cough hard or create mucus, but its just a sign your breathing is getting back to normal.
Use the inhaler the right way. Find a spot that is peaceful, and then follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. Remember that the medication must reach your lungs if the inhaler is to work properly. Spray the dosage into the mouth while you inhale air. Hold your breath still for ten seconds at least in order to let the mist with medicine fill your lungs.
Make sure that everyone in your family gets their flu shot. When you are afflicted with asthma, steer as clear as you can of all types of respiratory infections. Making sure to consistently wash your hands, and getting the proper vaccinations are two standard precautions.
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. If you have asthma, it's most likely triggered by things such as being around animals or pollen. Most asthmatics also can't tolerate smoke. Do your best to avoid coming into contact with substances that you know will trigger your symptoms.
If the air in your home is humid, it provides an ideal incubator for mold or mildew. Both of these allergens can be contributing factors in asthma attacks. Try, then, to ensure your home is dry. 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.
It is important to use your maintenance inhaler daily as prescribed. However, understand that most types of inhalers contain ingredients which may make your mouth more susceptible to infections. To prevent these issues, brush and use mouthwash immediately after inhaler usage.
Anyone with asthma needs to avoid all types of smoke when trying to decrease asthma attacks. Smoke can induce an asthma attack. Avoid triggers like vapors, chemical fumes, and cigarette smoke as much as you can. All of these air-borne pollutants can greatly increase your asthma symptoms. If someone is smoking near you, either ask them to stop or remove yourself from the situation.
Consult with more than one physician. The first place to consider visiting is your main doctor, but they might also be able to recommend a specialist. Nutritionists, allergists, pulmonologists and asthma centers can all help you, so make sure that you are using all of the different treatment avenues that you can.
Stop smoking. While smoking is a dangerous habit in general, it is far more damaging to those who have asthma. Smoke is an irritant to sensitive lungs, ans asthmatics should neither smoke nor be around people who're smoking.
Attending asthma support group meetings, or even talking to a few chosen people with the condition, can do wonders for you. By talking to fellow sufferers, you will learn more about asthma and what you should do in case of an attack. You need a strong support system!
If asthma is allowed to go untreated and uncontrolled, it can be fatal. Utilize the content provided here, you can learn to control your asthma and enjoy a healthier, more active lifestyle.