Asthma is a little scary to deal with because it creates trouble with the way you breathe. Its onset may be rapid and unforeseeable; it may restrict your activity and even threaten your life. This article is filled with helpful information about the hows and whys of asthma and offers useful advice on living with the condition and its effects.
In order to prevent asthma attacks, keep away from triggers. Certain outdoor areas may be off-limits because they cause allergies to flare up. For other people it may physical activities that will set them off. Try to see what cause your asthma so that you can avoid it.
If you're a sufferer of asthma, stay away from cigarette smoke. Asthma creates breathing problems by constricting airways, and cigarette smoking only exacerbates the problem. Avoid exposure to chemical fumes or vapors. This can trigger an unstoppable asthma attack. If you find yourself in a situation where you are around smokers, remove yourself as quickly as possible.
Consider getting injections of medications to treat your asthma if you are prone to attacks induced by allergy symptoms. Your allergist may recommend a variety of medications to control your reactions and the onset of asthma.
Everyone in your family, including you, should get the flu vaccination every year. Asthma sufferers need to be careful and guard against any upper-resperatory illnesses. It's important to take the standard precautions against these illnesses, such as hand washing and vaccinations.
If you are someone who suffers from asthma, you should consider buying a dehumidifier for your home. If you lessen your humidity in the house, you will stave off dust mites that may make your asthma flare. Dehumidifiers work by pulling the moisture out of the air of your home.
Have your rescue inhaler with you at all times, especially when on vacation. Being in odd environments can cause undue stress on your body, which makes you more prone to an asthma attack. You also have less control of your surroundings while you are away from home, so it is difficult to avoid potential triggers and to maintain control over your attack.
Look for a support group, such as an online community or a local group. Asthma, especially the more severe forms, cause many problems that interfere with the quality of life and present many challenges. Also, other asthma sufferers can alert you to scientific breakthroughs and changes, such as new medications.
Rescue Medication
Know the right way to take your asthma medication, and above all any rescue medication. A typical asthma treatment plan is daily medication backed up with an emergency inhaler. Asthma is a lifelong condition; you should correctly take your regular medication and use your rescue medication only as needed.
The development of asthma symptoms can occur over time and they can be difficult to pinpoint and diagnose. Some people have even died from having an asthma attack, and they didn't even know they had asthma. Discuss with your doctor if you are having problems trying to catch your breath or have had a persistent cough for a while. There is the possibility that you have developed asthma, and if so, your doctor can tell you what the best method to treat it would be.
Try using a inhaler that prevents asthma every day, but you should know that one of the side effects is mouth infections of teeth and gums. A good way to prevent these complications and side effects is to brush your teeth and gargle immediately after using your inhaler.
Monitor how often, each week, you need your rescue inhaler. If you use it three or more times each week, your treatment plan may not be working effectively or else an atypical situation may be triggering an increased number of attacks. The amount you utilize your inhaler can remind you to always monitor your environment as a means of effectively managing your asthma.
Use a mop that's wet to clean your floors instead of a broom. Sweeping sends dust and dander back into the air and could trigger an asthma attack. When you dust, try dampening a rag, instead of a feather duster, to avoid spreading things that can trigger your asthma.
To make sure all of your medical needs are being met, you will need to consult at least two doctors. Your primary physician should always be your first stop when dealing with asthma, but you may find it helpful to add a specialist's knowledge. Think about going to a pulmonologist, an allergist or even a nutritionist, depending on what is triggering your attacks.
If not properly treated and managed, asthma may be a death sentence. By applying the insights in this article to your life, you are able to manage your condition for easier breathing and a more active life.