If you are unfamiliar with the signs and symptoms of the different types of asthma, the onset of an asthma attack in yourself or someone you know, can be a very frightening experience. Fortunately, the information found in this selection of asthma tips and tricks, can prepare you by providing insight into this respiratory condition.
If your children have asthma, let everyone know; from their school teacher to their babysitter. If you make an effort to educate people about how they can reduce the risks of your child having an asthma attack, your children will go through their day in a much better environment. Do not assume that everyone knows how to take care of asthmatic children.
It may be wise to wear an ID bracelet if you have asthma. This way, if you were to have an asthma attack and you cannot speak for yourself, paramedics will know that you have this condition. If you do not feel comfortable wearing and ID bracelet, be sure to carry something on you that says you have asthma.
Asthma is a chronic condition, requiring constant health management. Make certain you are doing the most you can each day to keep your symptoms under control. Take the proper medications needed for everyday symptoms, and always have quick relief medication by you at all times in the event an attack occurs. Speak with an allergist or your doctor to determine the best care for you.
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 forcefully. Get the air all out of the lungs. Inhale in three short breaths and one fourth deeper breath so that your lungs are comfortably full of air, then exhale forcefully again. This method forces you to pay close attention to your breathing and create a steady rhythm. It also expels air from your lungs so more can enter. This may cause you to cough or it may cause phlegm, but your breathing will be back to normal again.
Let your friends know that they should not give you gifts of household plants. Plants can be a severe trigger for certain asthmatics. Having them constantly in your home would be like fighting a war with your environment every day. If someone does give you a plant, see if it can be planted outside. If it can’t be moved outdoors, thank them nicely for the gift and then give it away later.
When you are suffering from asthma and you have hay fever or a cold, you will most likely need an increase in your treatment. The effects of an illness can cause the severity of your asthma to temporarily increase, which necessitates a change in treatment. It is also possible that your physician will add an additional treatment to your routine until you recover from your illness.
Now that you have used these tips and hints to learn more about asthma, you will be better prepared if you or a loved one begins to experience the signs and symptoms of asthma. Combined with the care and advice of a licensed medical practitioner, you can be well on your way to beating asthma.