Physical Wellness

7 Helpful Tips for Managing Asthma on the Daily

By Ernest Hamilton | Update Date: Oct 11, 2019 11:40 AM EDT
7 Helpful Tips for Managing Asthma on the Daily

(Photo : 7 Helpful Tips for Managing Asthma on the Daily)

If you've been diagnosed with asthma, you need to do some specific things to look after it. Discover the best tips for managing asthma here. In the United States, about 25 million adults have asthma. 

Living with asthma is no picnic, and sometimes asthma attacks come unexpected and unwelcome, putting a dent in your schedule and your life. Managing asthma is not impossible, but knowing how to do it effectively is crucial. Keep reading to learn how you can help control your asthma. 

What is Asthma?

Asthma is a condition in which the person's airways to their lungs are constricted or inflamed. This makes breathing and other activities much more difficult. 

The airways are also sensitive to "triggers" or things that cause the airways to constrict even more. Triggers are different for everyone depending on the type of asthma they have. When this happens, it's called an asthma attack, and causes tightening in the chest and makes the person cough, wheeze, and have shortness of breath.

There is no cure for asthma; it's a chronic condition. If it's not maintained correctly, living a healthy life is hard, and it could be fatal. 

7 Tips For Managing Asthma

If you're wondering how to live with asthma and still have a thriving life, the good news is that it is possible! Here are seven tips that can help you regain a life with less wheezing and coughing. 

1. Take Your Medications

Just because you don't feel tightening in your chest or have trouble breathing all the time, doesn't mean you can skip out on taking your medications. Follow the directions exactly given by your doctor to keep your asthma manageable. If you have a rescue inhaler, keep it with you at all times. 

2. Find Your Triggers

Everyone's asthma is different, meaning the triggers are unique to them. Some common asthma triggers are:

  • Pollen

  • Dust

  • Smoke

  • Strong odors

  • Overexertion

  • Pets

  • Pollution

  • Mold

Knowing your triggers can help you avoid situations in which your asthma could flare up and cause more significant problems. 

3. Take Care of Yourself

The more you take care of your body, the better it will handle your asthma, especially if an attack strikes. Excercising strengthens your muscles and boosts your immune system. Practicing healthy habits like eating wholesome foods, getting enough sleep, and even exercising can benefit you.

If too much exercise is a trigger for you, find an activity where you're less likely to suffer an asthma attack. 

4. Try to Avoid Sickness

Viral infections like the flu do a number on folks with asthma. These respiratory illnesses can make asthma much worse, so do your best to avoid people and places where sickness might be lurking. 

Here are a few tips to keep yourself well:

  • Wash your hands after using the bathroom and being around sick people

  • Don't touch your nose, mouth, or any other part of your face

  • Get a flu vaccination

If you do contract the flu, keep a close eye on your asthma symptoms. 

5. Keep Visiting Your Doctor

Visiting your doctor once about your asthma isn't enough. Sometimes the condition can worsen, or you find your medication isn't working as well anymore. Bring this up at your appointments and talk about your medications and your options.

6. Clean House

A clean house will likely remove some of the triggers you experience, making life with asthma more doable. Allergens can enter your house via an open window, or dust can accumulate if not vacuumed. Take an hour or two each week to deep clean your home to remove and potential triggers. 

If you have lots of dust or dust mites, try using an air filter for extra protection.

7. Stop Smoking

Smoking only makes asthma worse, and it also hinders the ability of your asthma medication. If you smoke, ask your doctor about ways to quit. 

If you're not a smoker, second-hand smoke can do damage as well. Try and avoid places with second-hand smoke. 

Dangers of Ignoring Your Asthma

Understanding your asthma and its management is key to dealing with this condition. Without effective asthma treatment, you run the risk of becoming sicker, doing extensive damage to your airways and lungs, and possibly facing death. 

How Do I Know I'm Managing My Asthma Well?

Sometimes it's difficult to tell whether or not you have your asthma under control. This is important because you'll need to know how or if you need to make changes to your medication. Generally speaking, here are some ways you can tell if you're doing well with your asthma:

  • Inhaler use less than two times a week

  • Any lung test readings are normal

  • You can go throughout your daily activities without much wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath

Because asthma differs for everyone, if you're ever unsure about how you're doing, speak with your doctor about your concerns. 

My Child Has Asthma. How Can I Help Them?

Having a child with asthma is scary because children often don't pay close attention to their sickness or understand its severity. 

As a parent, there are some precautionary steps to take:

  • Create an action plan and outline the steps they need to take in case of an asthma attack, what medicines to take and when

  • Find out their triggers and avoid them

  • Watch for signs of flare-ups and learn what to do in case they occur

Communicate that your child has asthma with all teachers, coaches, family, and other adults, so they are aware of the situation.

Living With Asthma: It's Possible!

Managing asthma is a challenge, but living a healthy and active life is possible. What are some changes you need to make with your asthma to live a more fulfilling life? 

Are you looking for more information about health and wellness? We've got you covered! Visit our page to learn more. 

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* This is a contributed article and this content does not necessarily represent the views of counselheal.com

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