Asthma is a chronic lung condition that requires treatment. The condition causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways. This leads to wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing. Nearly 28 million Americans have the condition. Asthma can impact people of all ages. Below, you will find the six dos and don’ts for asthma patients.
6 Dos and Don’ts for Asthma Patients
Untreated asthma can cause several unwanted issues. It can also impact one’s daily life. To avoid the negative impacts of the condition, you should get asthma treatment. In addition to asthma treatment, consider the following dos and don’ts if you have asthma.
Dos For Asthma Patients
1. Follow Your Treatment Plan
Getting on an effective treatment plan is important to manage your symptoms and health. A pulmonologist can create a customized treatment plan for your unique needs. Follow your treatment plan, take your prescribed medication, and attend all of your follow-up appointments. Your pulmonologist can assess your progress and make any adjustments if necessary. Lifestyle changes are also a major part of your treatment plan.
2. Track Your Symptoms
Even when you are on a treatment plan, keep track of your asthma symptoms. Use a journal or an app on your phone so it is easy and convenient to log the information. Note when symptoms occur, the severity of the symptoms, what you were doing, and what might have triggered them. Take your symptom journal to all of your appointments. This information is helpful for your pulmonologist.
3. Avoid Your Triggers
Keeping a journal of your symptoms can help you avoid your triggers. Common asthma triggers include dust, pollen, smoke, pet dander, and strong odors. Pay attention to what causes your symptoms and take steps to avoid those triggers. Depending on the cause, there are several steps you can take to reduce the risk of a reaction. Keeping your home clean, including your bedding and soft surfaces, is beneficial. Use an air purifier to improve the air quality in your home. There is a lot within your control when it comes to avoiding your asthma triggers.
Don’ts for Asthma Patients
1. Don’t Smoke or Use Other Chemicals
Several surefire triggers can impact your asthma. One of the most common is smoke. Cigarette smoke, vaping, and even secondhand smoke easily trigger asthma attacks. Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke to reduce your risk of an attack. Strong chemicals can also trigger asthma attacks. Cleaning products, air fresheners, and perfumes contain chemicals that can irritate your airways. Choose unscented or natural products to reduce exposure to harsh fumes.
2. Don’t Ignore The Weather
Certain weather conditions can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Cold air and humidity can both make asthma worse for some people. Avoid the outdoors on bad weather days. If you cannot avoid the outdoors, take the necessary precautions. In addition to the weather, pollution and other air quality issues can impact your asthma. As with bad weather days, stay indoors if the air quality is poor. If you cannot, wear a mask or scarf to cover your nose and mouth.
3. Don’t Rely on Your Rescue Inhaler Alone
Rescue inhalers are an important part of your asthma treatment plan. However, they should not be relied on alone. Rescue inhalers are for quick relief, but they don’t control asthma long-term. If you’re using your inhaler too often, it may be a sign that your treatment plan needs to change. Other medications can improve your condition in the long run. Lifestyle changes are also a necessary part of the treatment plan.
Asthma Treatment
If you have asthma and need to get on an effective treatment plan, contact Dr. Shukla and his team today to schedule an appointment!
