A diagnosis of asthma can place significant restrictions on your lifestyle; it is a very serious condition and should be regarded as such. However, when you are treated properly and know how to deal with you asthma, you can manage it and live a fulfilling life. This article is packed with useful tips and advice for living with asthma.
Asthmatics should not smoke. If you smoke – quit immediately. Smoking is unhealthy for everyone, however it is especially bad for asthmatics. Your lungs are already compromised from the asthma and adding smoke to that will cut off the vital oxygen supply your lungs need to breathe.
When suffering a mild or even moderate asthma attack, attempt to push all air from your lungs. Force air out of your lungs with quick, powerful exhalations. You have to force the air out. Take three short breaths, and then take a fourth, deeper breath to fill your lungs comfortably; then, breathe out with force again. Paying attention this way will help you stabilize your breathing and make it rhythmic. It also pushes the air out of your lungs, so that more air can come in. You may cough or generate sputum, this is okay, your main goal is to get your breathing back on track again.
Cigarette smoke will make your asthma worse. Never smoke a cigarette! Avoid breathing in vapors from smoke or other chemical-type fumes. More often than not, smoke is going to trigger an unavoidable asthma attack. When you see people smoking in your area avoid them and move away.
Make proper use of your inhaler. 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. Make sure that you spray the required dosage directly into your mouth, inhaling the medication into your lungs. Be sure to hold the mist in your lungs for about ten seconds.
Make sure you are taking plenty of Vitamins E and C if you suffer from asthma. Since both of these have been attributed to better function of the lungs, they also help to control the symptoms of asthma. You can gain vitamins from supplements or the old fashioned way, from food! Another great benefit of vitamin C is that it will help to strengthen your immune system overall.
Unscented products are the safest option for those who suffer from asthma. Products that contain strong scents, like incense, perfume, or air freshener can trigger an asthma attack just by lingering in the air. An asthma sufferer’s airways can feel irritated by odors such as fresh paint or new carpeting. As much as possible, try to keep your home filled with fresh, pure air.
Asthma can be life threatening if not kept in check or left untreated. Make sure you always have an inhaler on you and avoid what triggers attacks. Put these tips to use, and free yourself from the constant fear of having an asthma attack.