Asthma is a condition that can make life harder to live. However, you should know that most of the symptoms can become manageable if you combine several coping strategies along with effective medication. In this article you can learn some of these strategies.
Some asthmas are specific to certain triggers, so identify what kind you have. Knowing as much as possible about your specific type of asthma will go an incredibly long way in helping you combat the day-to-day effects it has on you. If people who have asthma suffer attacks triggered by exercise, they should bring an inhaler with them when they work out. You will be able to prevent asthma attacks if you can recognize symptoms.
Cigarette smoke and asthma do not mix. You should not smoke! Avoid vapors and chemical fumes from cigarettes. A severe asthma attack can be life threatening. You should give up on the smokes if you have asthma and also make sure to avoid other people who are smoking.
If you are having trouble dealing with asthma, a leukotriene inhibitor might be of good use. There are modern medicines that are highly effective at blocking leukotrienes. Leukotriene, a chemical substance, can provoke an inflammation that causes an asthma attack. Taking an inhibitor blocks the receptors that leukotrienes normally interact with and leaves your throat less inflamed and attack-prone.
Cleaning Products
There are certain types of household cleaning products that can trigger asthma attacks, and using multiple products is particularly dangerous. Try using organic cleaning products which don't contain irritating chemicals.
For those who have asthma, the safest choice is to stick with unscented products. Using products with scents, like perfume, incense and air fresheners, boosts the amount of air pollution indoors and can bring on an attack. Be aware that fresh paint and new carpet also can emit harmful odors that irritate sensitive airways. Try to make it your goal to keep the indoor air as fresh and allergen free as possible.
Keep dust and dirt to a minimum in any bedroom where an asthma sufferer sleeps. Food should not be eaten outside of the kitchen, and there should be no indoor smoking. Harsh chemicals, like bleach and ammonia, can trigger asthma.
Asthma Treatment
Stand ready for a boost to your asthma treatment should you suffer from illnesses like colds or hay fever. A lot of illnesses can cause your asthma to flare up very badly, resulting in the necessity to increase asthma treatment. Your physician might also work an additional treatment into your therapy until such time as you are healthier.
Pay attention to your symptom triggers. The more aware of your triggers you become, the easier it will be to avoid them and reduce the number of attacks you suffer. Asthma sufferers generally have different triggers in common like pollen, pet dander and smoke. It is best to do all that is possible to avoid triggers that can cause attacks.
Don't miss your appointment for an asthma checkup simply because you aren't currently having any problems with your condition. You never know when you might suffer another flare-up, or when your doctor might have a better or safer medication to prescribe for your symptoms.
A humid home environment is a healthy environment for mildew and mold to develop. These substances are prime triggers for asthma attacks. Therefore, it is important to make sure your home is dry. Use a dehumidifier during the winter time so that you can keep humidity in control when you use a heater. You can use the air conditioning in your household during summer time to get the same affect.
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. Always clean your teeth and rinse your mouth after you use your inhaler.
Consider using more than just one doctor. The first place to consider visiting is your main doctor, but they might also be able to recommend a specialist. Certain specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, can provide extra treatment options for your asthma.
As mentioned, asthma is a serious disease that can endanger life if untreated and unmonitored. Make sure you always have an inhaler on you and avoid what triggers attacks. These tips can free you from the fear of asthma and help you live a normal life.