Asthma may be a frightening experience, especially when it limits your ability to freely breathe. Not only does an attack usually occur suddenly, it can be fatal and constantly limits your quality of life. To figure out where asthma attacks come from and what you can do to reduce your risk and manage your asthma condition, take a look at the helpful advice below.
Certain prescription medications have the potential to cause asthma symptoms. Among these medications are aspirin and other NSAIDs. This can also be caused by beta blockers, like medications that are used in managing high blood pressure or heart problems. Make sure your physician is aware of all of your chronic conditions and any medications you are on so they can treat your asthma appropriately.
Never turn on a fan when the room you are in is very dusty. While it may seem smart to get the air circulating, in reality this will only stir up the dust, making it easier to inhale and trigger an attack. If you wish to have a breeze, open a window instead of running a fan.
It is best to use products that are unscented in the home with someone who is asthmatic. Products that contain strong scents, like incense, perfume, or air freshener can trigger an asthma attack just by lingering in the air. Freshly painted walls and brand-new carpet can also give off odors that cause irritation to airways. As much as possible, try to keep your home filled with fresh, pure air.
Keep your home clean. By keeping a clean environment, especially in a bedroom, you can lower your risk of asthma attacks. Do not allow smoking in your house, and keep food in your kitchen. Thoroughly air out your house after every cleaning, and stay away from bleach and similar harsh chemicals while cleaning indoors.
Make sure you get a flu shot once a year if you suffer from asthma. Regular vaccinations will help you and your children to avoid lung infections.
Make sure to examine what it is that causes your asthma attacks in order to best avoid having to deal with them. Some common asthma triggers include pet dander, pollen, and cigarette smoke. When possible, stay away from triggers of asthma symptoms in an effort to prevent a severe attack.
Even if you seem to be fine, see your doctor regularly for your asthma checkups. It is important to make sure your condition isn’t worsening, and your doctor may want to prescribe a different medication.
Mold and mildew thrive in homes with high humidity levels. Asthma attacks are easily triggered by these substances. It is best if you keep the air in your home as dry as possible. During winter time, use a dehumidifier if necessary to control humidity while running your heater, and use your air conditioner during summer months to keep air dry.
Rescue Medication
Be sure to thoroughly understand how to utilize asthma medication correctly, particularly any rescue medication. Most people treat their asthma with regular daily medication, and carry supplemental emergency medication in the form of a rescue inhaler. It’s crucial that medication for management of asthma is taken regularly, and that rescue medication is also used when appropriate.
Keep an asthma diary and record how often, each week, you must use a rescue inhaler. If you use it more than two times a week, your asthma may need to be better controlled, or you are going through an usual period that brings on more regular attacks. How often an inhaler is used can help to monitor the environment.
Avoid smoke if you want to prevent asthma. Smoke and chemicals have been known to trigger asthma attacks. Keep away from chemical fumes, chemical vapor, and tobacco smoke as much as you can. Things like this can make your asthma worse. If you know someone who smokes, politely ask that they do not smoke in your presence.
Not to scare people, but asthma can truly be fatal if sufferers do not control and manage it properly. When you follow the advice from this article, you will manage your asthma through better breathing and improved activity.