5 Tips For Dealing With Asthma
If you have been diagnosed with asthma, you're not alone. Approximately 25 million people in the U.S. suffer from this condition. Asthma can cause difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing, and other unpleasant symptoms. While there's currently no cure for this condition, there are ways to manage it.
Understand Your Triggers
Not every asthma patient has the same triggers. One person may be triggered by cigarette smoke, for example, while another person may experience asthma symptoms from pets. It's important to learn what your triggers are and avoid them as best as you can. For instance, if your trigger is tobacco smoke, you should ask others to not smoke around you.
Maintain a Clean Home
As an allergy patient, it is more important than ever to keep your indoor environment clean. Otherwise, dust, pet dander, and other allergens can get into the air and trigger your asthma symptoms. Vacuum your floors a couple of times a week, wash bedding once a week, and change your air filters every 30 days.
If you have carpeting in your home, you may consider removing it and installing wood or laminate flooring because it is easier to keep clean.
Take Precautions When Exercising
Regular physical activity is beneficial for your body, so you should not hesitate to exercise regularly. However, you should take the proper precautions before working out. It is a good idea to take your asthma medication about 20 minutes before exercising to help open up your airways. You should also avoid exercising outdoors in freezing temperatures, as cold air can trigger asthma symptoms.
Reduce Your Risk of Viruses
Viral infections affect your airways and lungs, making your asthma symptoms worse. That is why you should try your best to avoid catching the cold or the flu. Include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet, wash your hands frequently, and get the flu shot.
Remember to Take Your Asthma Medications
It is important to take your asthma medications exactly how your doctor prescribed, even when you feel perfectly fine. It's important for asthma patient to always take their medications, even when they don't have any symptoms.
Living with asthma isn't always easy. However, if you take good care of yourself and listen to your doctor, you can manage this condition and live a normal life. If you notice that your asthma symptoms have been getting worse, you should contact an asthma care service right away.