If you are unfamiliar with the signs and symptoms of the different types of asthma, the onset of an asthma attack in yourself or someone you know, can be a very frightening experience. Fortunately, the information found in this selection of asthma tips and tricks, can prepare you by providing insight into this respiratory condition.
You should use the AC as much as possible so that you can breathe fresh air. But make sure you clean up your AC unit regularly. If you are going to use a humidifier, clean it too. An unclean AC system could make your life absolutely miserable if you have asthma.
It is important that you know what triggers your asthma symptoms. It may be wise to keep an asthma diary so you can see a pattern of when and where your asthma attacks happen. By knowing what triggers attacks, you will know what to avoid or stay away from as much as possible.
If you’re using your inhaler more than twice a week, you should talk to your doctor about additional asthma treatments. An inhaler is meant only for emergency relief and if you’re periodically relying on it, then your current asthma treatment isn’t effective enough. Overuse of an inhaler can be harmful and you should avoid potential problems, right away.
If you have asthma, make sure to cover all your mattresses and your pillows with plastic covers. This will prevent any dust that may be on your fabrics from getting into your lungs. You should also wash all of your bedding in hot water at least once a week. Yes, this is a lot of work, but you will reap the benefits if you make the time to do it.
When dealing with asthma, you should limit your contact with animals. Many people who have asthma also have an allergy to pets. Even if you do not have an allergy to pets, pets can carry trigger substances, such as dirt, in their fur. These substances could cause an attack without you being allergic to pets.
Quick relief or preventative treatment inhalers are medicines that need to be administered properly. Make sure you breath deeply into your lungs as you depress the inhaler. Hold the medication in your lungs for at least 3 to 5 seconds before you exhale allowing it to take better effect.
Have your home inspected at least once a year for mold and other spores. Many asthmatics, especially children, can have their asthma exacerbated by exposure to these allergens. Living in a home full of mold spores can even trigger repeated asthma attacks to the point of permanently damaging a child’s respiratory system.
When you are packing for a vacation and you have asthma, be sure to pack an extra rescue inhaler. In case your inhaler gets lost, having a back up will ensure that you do not go without medications. Also, do not forget to bring any pills you take for your asthma.
Now that you have used these tips and hints to learn more about asthma, you will be better prepared if you or a loved one begins to experience the signs and symptoms of asthma. Combined with the care and advice of a licensed medical practitioner, you can be well on your way to beating asthma.