Asthma symptoms can come on suddenly and without warning. Coughing, wheezing, and feeling as though you can’t catch your breath can be frightening.
If you have suffered from chronic asthma it may seem as though you are stuck in a cycle where you are trying to take control of your asthma, yet it is controlling you.
The good news is if you know how to manage it properly, asthma doesn’t need to keep you from enjoying your life.
This article will explain 7 tips on how to best manage asthma and associated symptoms so you can breathe easier!
Though it may be easier said than done, avoiding stressful situations can help you manage asthma.
Stress may not directly trigger asthma, but it can make it more difficult to control the symptoms.
As an example, extended periods of stress, combined with uncontrolled breathing problems may contribute to other health concerns. It also can impact your life, making it difficult to sleep, concentrate and have an effect on your mental health.
It is important for patients to manage stress by regularly exercising, meditating, getting enough sleep, limiting alcohol and eating healthy food.
Something as simple as going for a walk may also reduce your stress and help you get some fresh air into your lungs.
Smoking or being in close proximity to a smoker is not the best idea for anyone, let alone a person who has asthma.
Cigarette smoke irritates your lungs’ airways and it will definitely exacerbate your symptoms, e.g., coughing and wheezing.
Additionally, it may permanently damage your airways, and cause cancer, gum disease, heart disease and high blood pressure.
Also, it is important to avoid secondhand smoke. Choose to walk away from those who are smoking or ask them not to smoke next because it may flare your symptoms.
One of the best ways to manage your asthma is avoiding asthma triggers. Triggers may be different for everyone.
The key is to determine which triggers affect you specifically and avoid them as a precaution. Common triggers include dust, pollen, indoor mold, strong odors, sprays, colds or even some foods and beverages (shrimp, dried fruit, wine).
If you have been prescribed medication, try not to forget to take it, even if you are feeling fine.
It’s best to find a routine that works best for you to remember when to take preventative medication. Also always make sure to have your rescue inhaler on hand.
It may also slip your mind to refill your prescription if you’re running low. Don’t wait until the last minute. Staying on top of your medication schedule is one of the most effective ways to manage the condition.
You may not want to burden your family and friends so you try to manage asthma on your own.
If you are strong-willed and self-reliant, doctors advise having someone who can help you in an emergency. It is important not only in emergency situations, but also to help you manage triggers and help you remember to take prescribed medication.
By keeping your home clean, you can reduce or eliminate common asthma triggers. This includes dirt, dust, and pet dander. If you are cleaning yourself it is a good idea to wear a mask so as to not irritate the lungs.
It’s also important to try to get rid of mold in your home. It isn’t just in the bathroom and you may find it in other areas of the home that are damp. Mold can be invisible, airborne or stick to fabrics in the home. If you suffer from asthma it is best to ask for help to identify and manage mold in your home.
If you suffer from asthma or suspect that you may have it, don’t wait until your symptoms worsen.
You can effectively manage asthma with the help of your doctor. They not only can prescribe you the best medications to manage asthma, but can also give you advice on how to manage asthma attacks.
Wheezing, coughing, or feeling tightness in your chest? We have three convenient clinics if you need help with asthma symptoms
We are not only a walk in urgent care but also offer telemedicine urgent care if appropriate.
COVID-19 can be especially alarming for those who have asthma. If you have been exposed to COVID-19 or are experiencing symptoms we offer COVID-19 testing, including rapid COVID testing.
Our physicians are compassionate and knowledgeable on the best treatment for emergency asthma attacks. Contact or visit us so you can take control of your asthma symptoms!
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
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