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.
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.
Smoking is extremely harmful if you suffer from asthma. If you are not already a smoker, don’t start, and if you are, quit as soon as possible. While smoking is bad for everyone, it’s particularly hard on an asthma sufferer as it restricts oxygen getting to the lungs.
The symptoms of asthma might not always be apparent, but for those that suffer from the disease, the condition never goes away entirely. Make sure to take the right medication for controlling everyday asthma symptoms, but also have quick relief medication with you in case of an attack. Speak with an allergist or your doctor to determine the best care for you.
Medications that will help you control symptoms when you have an attack are oral corticosteroids and bronchodilators. Bronchodilators, usually referred to as “rescue medications”, are usually inhaled but also come in liquid, tablet, or they are injectable. These are the most popular forms of ‘rescue medications’ that you can get.
Medications can be taken on a regular basis to control inflammation in your airways. Inhaled corticosteroids such as cromolyn and leukotriene modifiers are some such medications. Consult with your doctor about which one is the best for you. You may need to try several of them.
When suffering from asthma, make sure to choose products that are unscented. Products that contain fragrance, such as perfumes, colognes, or air fresheners, can pollute the air triggering your asthma. Certain things in the home, such as newly installed carpet or fresh paint, can also release chemical irritants. Keep the air inside your house as fresh as you can.
If you suffer from asthma, you should be aware that animals can be a trigger for asthma attacks. While you might not have any specific animal related allergies, animals do accumulate dirt and other harmful substances that can trigger an attack when you go near them. In particular, you should be careful around common pets like dogs and cats.
If you feel like an asthma attack is coming on and you do not have your inhaler around you, try caffeine. Drink a couple cups of tea, coffee hot chocolate, or even eat a candy bar or two. Caffeine helps because it will open up your airways and allow you to breath easier.
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.