If you suffer from asthma, you know how difficult it can be when the symptoms flare up. They can disrupt your life. However, you do not have to suffer all the time. There are things that you can do to alleviate and control these symptoms. Read this article for some suggestions.
If asthma is something that you are afflicted with, then don’t smoke or immediately quit. Although smoking is bad for all people, it is especially worse for asthma patients because it cuts off the oxygen supply that you need in order for your lungs to function and keep away asthma attacks.
Avoid exposing yourself to any of your known asthma triggers. For some people, it may be related to allergies, such as a reaction to dust or pollen. For others, it may be linked to physical exertion. It is important to determine what triggers your asthma attacks so you can try to avoid those things.
Make sure you have your home inspected for allergens on a regular basis. Some of the most common culprits in asthma attacks are related to the air we breathe. Items like dust, mold and spores tend to be the most frequent sources of these attacks. Knowing that you have a problem with these items will let you be able to do something about it.
Try to avoid animals, as much as possible, if you have severe asthma. Even those who aren’t allergic to pets, should still limit their contact, since the animals’ fur can house dirt, dust, pollen and other asthma triggers. If you must have a pet, look into breeds that are hairless.
Although it may seem trivial to most people, it is important that you live near your doctor or an emergency room if you have asthma. Living in a rural area can mean that paramedics cannot get to you in time to save your life if you have a severe asthma attack.
Make sure you know your breathing. Observe the way you breathe when you are calm and symptom free. When you realize that your breathing has changed you can consider relaxation and breathing techniques to calm you down to avoid severe asthma attacks. During an attack, try to return your breathing to its normal depth and rate.
To alleviate or prevent asthma attacks, minimize how often and much you come into contact with animals. Even if you are not allergic to pet hair or dander, a common occurrence with asthma, you can have an attack triggered by the dirt or pet dander simply being in the air. If you have pets in the home, vacuum often to limit pet-triggered air pollutants.
If you suffer from asthma, ensure that your diet contains adequate amounts of Vitamin E and Vitamin C. These vitamins are thought to help improve lung function and control asthma symptoms. These vitamins can be easily obtained, either through your diet or a supplement. These vitamins are great for your immune system, and a strong immune system wards off illnesses that can trigger asthma attacks.
Asthma can be controlled if you know what precautions to take. Learn about the various triggers so you can avoid them. Talk to to other asthma sufferers for advice. It takes a bit of time to learn what to do and what to control, but the relief that you get is worth the effort.