Asthma is a chronic condition of the respiratory system that can be difficult to manage and is potentially life-threatening. However, if you and people close to you are educated about the condition, it is manageable. This article is full of tips on how to manage, treat and cope with asthma.
Know your triggers, and know them well. Most types of asthma have specific triggers that will lead to acute asthma attacks. By knowing your triggers, you can either limit your exposure to them or take measures to counteract their presence before you go. Preventing attacks is sometimes as simple as knowing what will cause them.
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.
If your child or another loved one suffers from asthma, you should be sure to never smoke cigarettes when you’re near them. Second-hand cigarette smoke is a leading cause of asthma. Keep your child away from cigarette smoke and any other kind of fumes.
If you have asthma and you get a cold try to avoid decongestant medication. These medications can cause heart palpitations in asthma patients and worsen asthma symptoms. Go to your doctor when you get a cold and they will be able to prescribe the medications that are safe to use.
If you have asthma symptoms, but you have never be diagnosed with it, it is important that you see a doctor immediately, as other conditions may mimic asthma. Also, if you find out that it is asthma that you have, it is important that you start treatment right away.
If you have asthma, know your triggers. What is it that causes an asthma attack to come on? Many common triggers are allergies and irritants. For some, it is exercise or extreme temperatures. Emotional or anxiety issues can also cause asthma type attacks. Knowing what causes your attack can also be what will help you find a proper treatment.
If you feel that your asthma symptoms are getting worse, try drinking a cup of hot coffee. Not only will the warmth relieve some of your symptoms, the caffeine can open up your airways and reduce the urge to cough. If you don’t like coffee, try tea, hot chocolate, or a chocolate bar.
If you are suffering an acute asthma attack and your emergency inhaler doesn’t seem to work to bring it under control, get help. Asthma attacks can worsen very quickly. It’s better to visit a doctor or even a hospital for a minor attack than to stay home through a major attack and suffer the consequences. It’s a good idea to keep your cell phone charged up and within easy reach. Keep emergency contacts on speed dial.
No matter what your asthma is triggered by, the effects of asthma symptoms and attacks can range from annoying to life-threatening. To manage your asthma effectively, learn everything you can about your condition and follow the advice outlined in this article. You can live your life and enjoy it when you know how to manage your asthma.