Asthma is a problem that all ages are constantly dealing with. You should always get professional help, and avoid the things that cause your asthma attacks. This article will show you some simple ways you can reduce your asthma symptoms, thus lowering your chances of a serious attack.
What kind of asthma do you have? Particular cases of asthma can respond differently to the same treatment, so you need to know all that you can about your case to treat it most effectively. 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.
Asthma Symptoms
Certain prescription medications have the potential to cause asthma symptoms. Some anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, can flare up asthma symptoms. Beta blockers can also have this affect, as well as other medications for controlling high blood pressure and heart disease. If you suffer from these conditions and also have asthma, be sure to let your doctor know.
Asthma doesn't just go away, so you can't just stop managing it. Make certain you are doing the most you can each day to keep your symptoms under control. Take the proper medications needed for everyday symptoms, and always have quick relief medication by you at all times in the event an attack occurs. Talk to your doctor and allergist to see what is the best idea for you.
During a mild to moderate attack, force all of the air out of your lungs. Exhale quickly and hard. Get the air all out of the lungs. Inhale in a series of three, or three shallow breaths and one deep breath. After your lungs are filled with air, forcefully exhale again. This technique develops a breathing rhythm, allowing you to notice the breaths that you take in. It will also help to get the air to come out of the lungs so more can come in. You might cough hard or create mucus, but its just a sign your breathing is getting back to normal.
Make sure that everyone in your family gets their flu shot. Keep yourself healthy, and without respiratory infections as best you can. Take the right steps to stop yourself from getting sick, wash your hands and get the right vaccines.
When suffering from asthma, there are vitamins that can help, including E and C. There is some evidence that these two vitamins can improve breathing and lower the frequency of asthma attacks. You can find the vitamins you need in food or supplements. Another great benefit of vitamin C is that it will help to strengthen your immune system overall.
Avoid pillows with feathers if you have asthma. Feathers can have a negative effect on the lungs and can worsen asthma symptoms. You should also look into hypoallergenic materials when buying sheets and a comforter.
Don't skip appointments for your checkups, even if you haven't had any recent asthma attacks. Your health care provider may have new prescriptions that could benefit you in case the need arises.
Support Group
If you or a loved one suffers from asthma, a support group may help. You can find support groups online or in your community. Asthma can be severe enough to keep you away from social activiites. By getting involved in a support group you will also be speaking with other sufferers who may know of new scientific discoveries and treatment plans you may not be aware of.
Your home's humidity can cause mold and mildew growth within it. These substances can easily trigger asthma attacks. Keeping a home dry and mold-free is important. In the winter, use a dehumidifier along with your heater, and in the summer months, you can use your air conditioner to help control the amount of water in the air within your home.
Asthma is not a subject to fool around with. Since asthma attacks have the potential to be so dangerous, it is important that you take precautions to prevent them. Limit your exposure to allergens, smoke, pollution, and dust mites. By following the tips laid out here, your symptoms will improve and you can better control your illness.