You have just been diagnosed with asthma. Now what? The diagnosis of asthma can be frightening, but the disease does not need to control your life. There are plenty of things people with asthma can do to limit the effect it has on their daily activities. This article will outline some ways you can begin to manage your asthma symptoms.
A lot of people enjoy the smell of a clean house. If you have asthma, this is actually harmful. The pleasant smell comes from chemicals that remain in the air. Make sure you open up your windows every time you clean up your house, even if this means losing the fresh smell.
Do all you can to learn not just about asthma, but your particular asthma. Being aware of your particular asthma condition can help you to effectively treat it on a daily basis. If you have exercised-induced asthma, for example, you’ll want to bring your inhaler with you to the gym or other locations where you might be involved in physical activity. You will be able to prevent asthma attacks if you can recognize symptoms.
To keep your asthma under control, you should only use non-aspirin pain relievers. Both Aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen and aleve can irritate the lungs and worsen the effects of your asthma over time. Tylenol has no negative effects on asthma users, and can be taken regularly without issue.
It may be wise to wear an ID bracelet if you have asthma. This way, if you were to have an asthma attack and you cannot speak for yourself, paramedics will know that you have this condition. If you do not feel comfortable wearing and ID bracelet, be sure to carry something on you that says you have asthma.
While exercising, to avoid an attack or to overcome a mild attack take these two steps. Step One: thrust all of the air out of your lungs, really force it. Step Two: create an “O” shape with your lips, almost like you are about to whistle, but not that narrow, then forcibly suck air back into your lungs until you are comfortably filled with air. Repeat these steps as long as you are exercising and are worried about an attack. The breathing creates a rhythm so that you are aware of your breathing. It also causes you to mildly hyperventilate, pumping more oxygen into your bloodstream.
If you have asthma and you get a cold try to avoid decongestant medication. These medications can cause heart palpitations in asthma patients and worsen asthma symptoms. Go to your doctor when you get a cold and they will be able to prescribe the medications that are safe to use.
As you can see, your asthma does not need to limit you from having fun. With proper management, people with asthma can live full and satisfying lives. The trick to living well with asthma is being prepared for emergency situations and managing your symptoms adequately. A working knowledge of your body is the first step to doing this!