Asthma can put you in critical condition very quickly if you aren't careful. Attacks from asthma have been known to be fatal. It is important to talk to your doctor about it, as well as take time to research to learn more, too. This article is filled with useful tips to help you manage your asthma.
Never smoke around a child with asthma, or you could kill them! Secondhand smoke is something that can lead to serious asthma. Keep your child away from any area where people are smoking.
There are medications that can unknowingly cause asthma-like symptoms. Some over the counter medications can irritate your asthma. Other medications that may have an effect on the respiratory system include beta blockers used to treat high blood pressure. If you suffer from any of these conditions along with your asthma, make sure you tell your doctor.
Asthma doesn't just go away, so you can't just stop managing it. You need to always take your medications for your everyday symptoms, and keep your quick relief medication with you in case you do have an attack. Speak to an allergist and doctor to see what's best for you.
Avoid using a fan in any room that has excessive dust. When you turn on the fans they will move the dust in the room around and this can trigger your asthma very easily. It could be better to open the window if you need to get airflow.
Talk to a social worker if you're not eligible for any health insurance and you're an asthma sufferer. Social workers are often able to locate a hospital or clinic that can offer free or low cost options to make sure you can fill your medication prescriptions.
If you have been diagnosed with asthma, you should avoid smoking or even being in the presence of smokers. When you inhale tobacco smoke, you are severely increasing the likelihood of an asthma attack. This is especially true in small, confined areas with little to no ventilation.
Always choose unscented products for your home if you have asthma. Products with a strong smell such as air fresheners, incense or perfume can trigger asthma attacks. Many things in the home release chemicals that irritate the lungs, such as newly installed carpet or fresh paint. Keep the air inside your house as fresh as you can.
You should know what triggers your asthma attacks; this will allow you to either avoid them or be ready to manage the symptoms. Those who experience asthma are susceptible to some common things like pet dander, smoke, or pollen. Avoid these things when you can to breathe easier.
You should always have your rescue medication with you when you are traveling. Traveling tends to put extra stain on the body, and you're more susceptible to your asthma triggers under these conditions. You can't control the weather or the environment when you travel, so keep in mind you are more vulnerable to symptoms and attacks when you go to a new area.
Even if you are feeling great, never skip your regular asthma checkup. A flare up can come at any time and your doctor can always look into safer medications for your particular symptoms.
Rescue Medication
Know how to properly use asthma medicine, especially your rescue medication. When you have asthma, you should be on a maintenance medication and have an emergency medicine for asthma attacks. Usually this is in the form of an inhaler. Asthma is not curable, so it is very important that you take your medication properly and only use your rescue medication if you need it.
If traveling by plane with your asthma equipment or medications, always carry your written prescription with you to avoid problems. Without a written prescription stating that the item is medically necessary, you may experience frustration and delays at security checkpoints.
It is important to track how often you use your fast-acting inhaler each week. Using it more often than twice weekly means that you should have your asthma assessed by a doctor. The amount you utilize your inhaler can remind you to always monitor your environment as a means of effectively managing your asthma.
Anyone with asthma needs to avoid all types of smoke when trying to decrease asthma attacks. Breathing in smoke can trigger an asthma attack. Stay away from all types of fumes as well as cigarette smoke. These can aggravate your asthma symptoms. If someone starts smoking near you, politely inquire whether they can smoke in your absence.
Asthma is an uncurable disease, but that doesn't mean that the symptoms are permanent and can't go away. However, just like most things in life, overcoming your asthma symptoms takes time and effort. If you follow these easy tips, you'll find that your symptoms will get better over time and you'll be able to enjoy a healthier, more active lifestyle.