Asthma is a serious problem that millions of people suffer around the world. If your asthma medication isn’t working, or isn’t as effective as you’d like it to be, then follow these simple tips in this article to help relieve and lessen the symptoms and help you lead a healthy, enjoyable life.
Wash your bedding regularly, at least once a week. Your bedding might contain dust and microscopic acarids which can cause asthma. You should also place a protective plastic cover on your mattress since you cannot wash it. Keep your clean bedding in a drawer where it will not get dusty.
A healthy diet can help you to better manage your asthma. Studies have shown that processed foods, sugar, and trans fats can bring about inflammation which can trigger asthma. You don’t have to cut these foods out entirely, but you should keep them to a minimum.
Get the flu vaccine every year if you suffer from asthma. Respiratory or sinus issues that can come from a bout with the flu can really do a number on an asthma sufferer. Taking the preventive tack of getting the vaccine can save you some serious suffering down the road.
If you own any type of pet and have asthma you need to be extremely cautious. The pet dander can easily set off an asthma attack. You should try hard not to have close contact with the animal, and have someone else bathe the pet thoroughly on a weekly basis.
Persons suffering from severe asthma should take acetaminophen based pain killers. Aspirin, NSAIDs and ibuprofen based medication such as Advil or Motrin may trigger or worsen your asthma attacks. Be sure to carry the right type of medication with you as your coworkers, friends or family members may not have the appropriate one.
Try to reduce the amount of environmental allergens and pollutants, such as dust, pollens, pet hair, molds and fungi, and food particles. Keeping your house clean can make a huge difference for your asthma symptoms. Buying an air filter or purifier, or even cleaning out the filters in your AC system can also help.
Have your home inspected at least once a year for mold and mildew if you have asthma. As bad as mold and mildew is for healthy people, it is even worse for people with asthma because it can decrease lung function and make breathing harder. If you suspect you do have mold in your home, be sure to let your doctor know.
Acid reflux is a commonly missed diagnosis of asthma sufferers. You don’t have to experience heartburn to be suffering from acid reflux. If it is causing your asthma attacks, treatment will be very different than for those whose asthma is caused by more traditional causes. Talk to your allergist or doctor if you think they may be a cause.
Asthma should be the least of your concerns in your life. But controlling your asthma takes effort and patience, and will not come easily. However, if you follow these tips in this article and watch out for warning signs, you should be able to improve your symptoms over time and also the quality of your life.