A respiratory condition like asthma can be a frightening prospect for someone who is newly diagnosed or if you are friends with someone who has been diagnosed with the affliction. Fortunately, the information found in this handpicked selection of tips and tricks, is likely to shed some amount of light on the subject.
If you want to use a humidifier or a vaporizer, clean it thoroughly. If it contains dust or anything else, your lungs will be bothered by the particles contained in the vapor. Let your humidifiers and vaporizers stand in water for a while and make sure they are dry before you use them.
It is important that you keep your home and work environment clean if you have asthma. Dust and germs can worsen your asthma symptoms and cut off oxygen to your lungs. Because dust accumulates rather quickly, it is recommended that you dust your furniture and appliances at least once a week.
If you do not understand the early signs of asthma, look for more frequent symptoms that have become increasingly worse, such as: coughing, wheezing and chest pressure or pain. If your symptoms keep you up at night or wake you up, make sure to contact your allergist right away.
Avoid being around smoke and fumes. Smoke, including cigarette smoke and vehicle exhaust, contain small particles of dust and chemicals, which can irritate the bronchial linings. This irritation is dangerous for asthmatics, as it can interfere with breathing in an already compromised system. Breathing in cigarette smoke especially can trigger an asthma attack.
An annual flu vaccination is highly recommended for yourself and your family. It is a good idea to avoid all respiratory infections when you have asthma. Common method of avoiding illnesses can be very effective. Keep your vaccinations up to date and wash your hands frequently.
If you have asthma and you are going to be traveling by air, be sure to get a note from your doctor stating your condition and what medications you take. Airports are picky on what can be brought on board, but asthma patients are always permitted to bring medications and inhalers on board, as long as they have a doctor’s note.
Have your home inspected at least once a year for mold and mildew if you have asthma. As bad as mold and mildew is for healthy people, it is even worse for people with asthma because it can decrease lung function and make breathing harder. If you suspect you do have mold in your home, be sure to let your doctor know.
If you have hay fever or a cold, you will probably need increased treatment of your asthma. These kinds of illness can inflame you asthma to a degree that a treatment increase is necessary. Your doctor may prescribe a new medicine or change the dose of your existing medication until the hay fever or cold passes.
Like any other medical condition, asthma may seem especially scary, if you are unfamiliar with its most basic symptoms and treatment options. Use the information that you have just read, to arm yourself and be better prepared, if you or someone you know is faced with overcoming the condition on a daily basis.