5 Ways to Control Your Asthma Symptoms

If you or a loved one suffers from asthma, then you’re probably already well aware of just how much it can affect your quality of life. From a decreased ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities, to the development of serious health problems, asthma has the power to create a myriad of challenges for those afflicted by it.

However, regardless of whether your asthma symptoms are mild or severe, there are certain precautions you can take to help keep them under control. With the right prevention plan for “asthma triggers,” you can manage your symptoms and prevent an asthma attack from occurring.

Here are the five most common ways you can control your asthma symptoms.

1. Limit Your Exposure to Environmental Irritants

A variety of irritants, such as pollen, pet dander, dust, and mold, can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Therefore, in order to properly manage your asthma, you should minimize your exposure to these allergens. Make sure there is no mold present in your home, office or other areas you spend a lot of time. It would also be wise to buy an air purifier to cut down on the dust, pollen, and dander in the air around you. All of these are potential triggers for an asthma attack. You should also avoid all outdoor activities if the air quality is particularly poor.

When traveling in your car, roll up the windows and turn on the air conditioner if allergens may be present or, better yet, purchase an auto air purifier. While limiting your exposure to environmental irritants may not stop your asthma symptoms once they occur, it can greatly reduce the amount of triggers that may lead to an attack.

2. Develop an Effective Care Plan With Your Doctor

Speak with your doctor to see which options may be right for you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. In fact, you should keep a notebook on hand to jot down any questions that you might have, so that you can have them at-the-ready for your next appointment. When it comes to your health, there’s no such thing as a stupid question.

Also, it’s important to remember that you are an integral part of your care plan. If a medication or preventive method isn’t working effectively, then tell your doctor so that he or she can help you to formulate another course of action that may provide more relief. Let them know about any new or worsening symptoms that you are currently experiencing, so that they can adjust your medication or find new solutions that can allow you to breathe easier.

3. Enroll in an Asthma Management Class or Program

Look online or speak with your physician to see if there are any asthma management programs or courses in your area. If not, there are plenty of asthma sufferer support groups and forums on the internet. These can be great places to go in order to get tips for how to manage your asthma, as well as gain essential advice from others who are experiencing similar symptoms.

Chatting with others whom suffer from the same conditions may help you deal with asthma on a personal and emotional level, as well, as it will offer you the chance to communicate and relate with those who know what it’s like to suffer from this condition. Just remember, it’s crucial that you run everything by your doctor before you do anything that may complicate your symptoms.

4. Carefully Monitor Your Symptoms

Keeping a close eye on your symptoms is essential. This is especially true if you are unsure about which common triggers you may be most sensitive to.

For instance, if exposure to dust mites cause a reaction, then you will be able to take the appropriate measures to avoid this trigger going forward. Monitoring your symptoms will also enable you to more effectively develop a plan to manage your condition with your healthcare provider. To help you keep track of potential triggers, it would be wise to keep a detailed journal of all symptoms, as well as potential triggers, that you experience throughout your day-to-day life.

5. Know How to Properly Use Your Current Medications

This should be common sense, but you would be surprised at how little people know about the medication they are prescribed. It’s incredibly important that you fully understand how to use your medications in order to properly manage your asthma. Make sure you ask your doctor and pharmacist plenty of questions about the medication you are being prescribed. There’s no such thing as a stupid question when it comes to the medications you put in your body.

For example, if you are using an inhaler, make sure that you understand how to use it, when not to use it and the potential dangers of using it too often. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if you feel that you may be using your inhaler or medication improperly.

Control Your Asthma, Don’t Let it Control You

Take control of your asthma by using these helpful tips to minimize its impact upon your health (and the quality of your life). Keep in mind that there is no substitute for medical care if you do have asthma, however. It’s always recommended that you speak with your doctor about possible ways you can manage your condition, or if your symptoms worsen. Asthma doesn’t have to stop you from leading a happy and full life. Take control today.