Asthma is one of the most common health conditions of today. Studies show a drastic increase in asthma diagnosis among adults and youth. Managing asthma and being educated in asthma related issues is an important step to understanding how to control symptoms or work with your doctor to decide on treatment options that are best for you.
Concurrent health problems can contribute to your asthma symptoms. Many people with allergies find that their asthma symptoms become worse around allergy triggers. If you keep on top of your concurrent health problems, you’ll be less likely to be triggered into an acute asthma attack. Ask your doctor if your other diagnoses could contribute to your struggle with asthma.
Avoid keeping potted plants in your home. Certain plants might have a smell or change the nature of the air you breathe in a way that triggers asthma. If you want to keep plants, pay close attention to your symptoms and be ready to remove the plants if you notice any changes.
You may want to avoid getting pets, especially those with longer fur, if you have asthma. For many people, pet dander and fur is one of the major triggers of asthma attacks. If you really want to get a pet, try to get one with short fur or get an aquatic animal, like a fish.
Do not swim in pools that contain chlorine if you have asthma. The chlorine can trigger asthma attacks or make your symptoms worse. If you are unsure if the pool that you are going to swim in has chlorine or not, ask a lifeguard or the manager of the facility.
Bronchodilators are a common treatment for asthma that is prescribed by a doctor. It is usually in the form of an inhaler, and there are short and long-acting treatments. The short-term will help with an immediate symptom, while the long-acting dose will be for ongoing problems.
Leukotriene inhibitors can help control the symptoms of asthma. A leukotriene inhibitor works by preventing leukotrienes. Leukotriene is a chemical substance that can lead to inflammation that can cause an asthma attack. This inhibitor can prevent leukotrienes, which makes you less likely to have an asthma attack.
Be certain to properly use your inhaler. Find a comfy spot, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Remember that using an inhaler is only going to help you if the medication contained within makes its way to the lungs. Inhale the air and spray the right amount down your throat. It is then necessary to hold the breath for about ten seconds to give the medication time to work in your lungs.
If your health insurance situation cannot help you with your asthma, talk to a social worker. If you cannot afford medicine for asthma, your social worker can help you locate someone that can help.
It is empowering to have a greater understanding about asthma. Whether it is you, your child, a family member or a loved one, who is suffering from asthma, the above tips will help you greatly. Utilizing them will place you firmly in the right direction of having a full and healthy life; asthma does not have to stand in your way.