An oncoming asthma episode can be particularly frightening, and the idea that this is something that you will have to endure throughout your life can be overwhelming. With the right education, dealing with asthma and having a good quality of life is possible. Keep reading to discover ways you can manage asthma and live better for it.
Do not smoke around your children if they have asthma. Secondhand smoke is known to be a reason asthma happens. You should take care to also make sure your child does not get exposed to other environments where people might be smoking.
You may be unaware that certain medications you might be on could cause asthma symptoms. A couple of common culprits that do this are aspirin and NSAIDs. Beta blockers that are used to treat high blood pressure and heart disease can develop asthma like symptoms. If you have asthma and these other conditions, let your physician know.
Asthma Attacks
Leukotriene inhibitors can help control the symptoms of asthma. A leukotriene inhibitor stops the release of a chemical that causes the inflammation that is responsible for some asthma attacks. Leukotriene is a chemical substance that can lead to inflammation that can cause an asthma attack. The inhibitor will keep the leukotrienes from forming, which can reduce the frequency of asthma attacks that you experience.
Make sure you are using your inhaler properly. Find a spot that is peaceful, and then follow the instructions given by the manufacturer. The inhaler is only beneficial if the medicine gets to your lungs. Inhale deeply as you dispense the correct amount into your mouth. You should hold your breath 10 seconds so the medicated mist is able to fill up your lungs.
Make certain that all members of your family get their annual flu shot. Keep yourself healthy, and without respiratory infections as best you can. This means you should also be sure to wash your hands frequently and get vaccinated.
Think about buying a dehumidifier if your asthma symptoms are bad. Decreasing the humidity in the house decreases dust mites, which decreases asthma flare ups. Dehumidifiers reduce attacks in your home by making the air cleaner and drier.
If you suffer from asthma, avoid smokers, even if you do not smoke yourself. When you breathe in smoke, particularly in an enclosed area, your lungs cannot function as well, and it increases your risk of having an asthma attack.
If you suffer from asthma, you should refrain from sleeping on a pillow that contains feathers. Feather can decrease lung function and trigger asthma symptoms. This applies to bedding, as well. Purchase sheets and comforters that are made of hypoallergenic materials.
Asthma Attack
If you are on the road, be certain to travel with your inhaler at all hours. You may find that the stress of traveling makes an asthma attack more likely. It is often hard to maintain the right kind of environment when you are traveling, and this may heighten the risk of an asthma attack or worsening symptoms.
You should know how to manage and live with asthma. The more information that you can obtain about asthma, the less burdensome it is. We have, thankfully, learned a lot about living with asthma and how you can be happier if you have it.