Asthma, a common respiratory condition, can cause wheezing and chest tightness. It also causes shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness. Asthma can be managed with medication, or by changing your environment to decrease triggers for asthma attacks. Those with severe asthma should also consider portable oxygen concentrators.
This article contains 8 tips to help you manage your asthma.
1) Recognize possible triggers
Knowing what triggers an asthma attack is the first step to avoiding them. These triggers can be avoided to help you control your asthma and prevent attacks.
2) Avoid Dust Mites and Dust Dust
Avoid using down pillows and comforters as they attract dust mites. You should change your bedding frequently. To keep dust from building up on your mattress, cover it with mattress covers. Dust mites can also be trapped in clothing and shoes. Dust mites are a major cause of asthma. Keep your home clean and dust-free.
3) Avoid Pets
Avoid any contact with pets if you can. If you are unable to have pets, make sure to vacuum frequently and to ask your pharmacist about medication to reduce allergic reactions in pet owners.
4) Keep the House Clean
Asthmatic symptoms can also be caused by mold and dust. Make sure you have a clean home. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, (AAFA) estimates that about 80% of homes in developed nations contain dust mites and other allergens such as cockroaches and animal dander. To keep your home clean, vacuum or dust every day and wash your sheets in hot water once a week.
5) Make Your Bedroom an Asthma-Free Zone
Make sure your bedroom is as asthma-free as possible. You can keep your windows shut, run an air purifier and use a humidifier in winter. This will remove allergens and other irritants from your bedroom. The AAFA recommends you get rid of carpets, particularly wall-to-wall, as they can collect allergens.
6) Do not use chemical air fresheners
Some people can have respiratory problems from chemical air fresheners. Avoid using them if possible and choose natural products.
7) Keep your home’s humidity level low
Keep your home’s humidity low. High levels of moisture encourage mold growth and mite infestations. If necessary, you can use a humidifier to reduce dryness. A hygrometer can be used to determine the humidity level in your home.
8) Quit Smoking
Asthma attacks are often caused by smoking. Smoking will reduce your chances of developing asthma and make you more healthy. Smoking can increase your chances of getting infected and make it more difficult for your medication to work properly. It can also make asthma attacks more likely.
What should you do if you suffer from Asthma attacks frequently?
Seek out a doctor right away. You can find a Pulmonologist near Lahore here.
Asthma can kill! Asthma sufferers need to be vigilant and aware of signs such as an attack, so they know what to do to stop it from happening.
Most asthma attacks are caused by allergies. You can either take medication or address the triggers. To minimize your exposure to allergens like dust, mold and pet dander, you should identify common triggers. If symptoms persist, consult your doctor for additional medication.
