If you’re one of the millions of people suffering from asthma, you should know that there are many ways to improve your symptoms and stop it from worsening. In this article, you’ll find many of these simple tips that will put your asthma under control, and let you live a healthy, enjoyable life.
If you are suffering from a moderate or mild attack, do your best to force as much air out of the lungs as possible. Exhale quickly and hard. Exhale with maximum force! Then, follow three short intakes of breath with one longer inhalation until your lungs are filled with air, although not uncomfortably so. Finally, expel the air from your lungs with force again. Pay attention to what you are doing and follow a regular rhythm. When air is forcefully exhaled, it allows a fresh intake of air to fill your lungs. You might cough or produce sputum, but that is fine; you are trying to get breathing under control again.
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.
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.
Change your sheets and comforter once a week, and wash them in hot water. One of the best ways to prevent attacks or common triggers is to ensure your home is clean and dry. Your bedding starts to collect dust, dander, dirt and other debris that can pollute the air you breathe. Frequent washing in hot water ensures these pollutants are kept to a minimum.
Try joining an in-person or virtual asthma support group. Left untreated, asthma can be very debilitating and prevent you from enjoying your normal activities. In addition, a community of other asthma sufferers will let you know about changes in medications or other relevant scientific discoveries.
Stay indoors during high pollen count days. Pollen and other airborne allergens account for many asthma symptoms. When pollen counts reach higher levels, the number of patients in the ER with severe asthma attacks increases. Avoid an attack, by staying indoors with an air conditioner or other air filtering system.
Talk clearly with your doctor to make sure you fully understand your individual condition and treatment plan. Because asthma treatments vary significantly, it is important your doctor understand exactly what your symptoms are in order to develop an individualized treatment plan. It is also important you understand the plan so you can take appropriate steps to manage your asthma.
Although this article makes it sound easy to control your asthma, you should recognize how dangerous asthma can be. Always contact appropriate medical help if you sense your symptoms worsening or getting out of control. Asthma attacks are extremely dangerous and can be fatal. Hopefully, by applying these tips, you’ll be able to better manage your asthma symptoms.