With more than 17 million men, women, and kids suffering from asthma in the United States alone, there is a very good chance that you or someone you know is affected with this respiratory condition. Fortunately, this selection of carefully selected tips and tricks will leave you more informed about asthma.
A great tip that can help you alleviate your asthma is to make sure you’re properly using your inhaler. A lot of people don’t use their inhaler correctly because they take shallow breaths. In order for the medicine to work, you need to inhale deeply when using your inhaler.
If your children have asthma or hives, they might actually have certain food allergies. You should go to a doctor and do the necessary tests to find out if they are allergic to something and then, make sure they stay away from that particular food, if they turn out to be allergic.
It is important that you keep your home and work environment clean if you have asthma. Dust and germs can worsen your asthma symptoms and cut off oxygen to your lungs. Because dust accumulates rather quickly, it is recommended that you dust your furniture and appliances at least once a week.
Asthma is a disease that is ongoing and must be attended to every day. 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. See your doctor or allergist to find out which treatment plan is best for your situation.
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.
Avoid being around smoke and fumes. Smoke, including cigarette smoke and vehicle exhaust, contain small particles of dust and chemicals, which can irritate the bronchial linings. This irritation is dangerous for asthmatics, as it can interfere with breathing in an already compromised system. Breathing in cigarette smoke especially can trigger an asthma attack.
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.
If you have been diagnosed with asthma then you want to be sure that your doctor prescribes for you a rescue inhaler. You will want to bring this rescue inhaler with you wherever you go. The reason for this is very simple: you simply never know when you will have an asthma attack.
Now that you have armed yourself with information on the common symptoms, triggers, and courses of treatment for this common respiratory condition, you will be better prepared to discuss medical care and prevention. Remember this useful and highly recommended advice to do whatever it takes to stay one step ahead of asthma.