Contents
and Health
Asthma is a condition that affects more than 25 million people in the US alone. With careful control and management, living with asthma can be greatly improved and made more manageable. Knowing how to manage asthma can help you maintain your lung health and overall wellbeing. Here are some tips to help you manage your asthma:
Track Your Symptoms
The first step in properly managing your asthma is to track your symptoms. This provides you with essential data both you and your doctor can use to determine the best course of action. Record triggers such as changes in weather and your activity levels, as well as the type and severity of asthma symptoms.
Follow Your Asthma Action Plan
Your doctor will create an Asthma Action Plan to ensure best practices are in place for you to control your asthma symptoms. Be sure to follow your plan and update your doctor when necessary. Your action plan will include instructions on how to take your medications and when to contact your doctor.
Take Medications as Prescribed
Make sure you take any prescribed medications as directed by your doctor. Inhaled corticosteroids are commonly used to reduce inflammation and mucous in the lungs. Other medications may be prescribed to reduce the risk of symptoms, such as an albuterol inhaler. Always follow any directions for use and possible side effects associated with your medications.
Reduce Stress and Get Regular Exercise
Stress can make asthma worse, so it is important to find ways to reduce your stress levels. Relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation can help. Regular exercise is also important for maintaining lung health. Talk to your doctor about the types of exercise that are most appropriate for your asthma.
Monitor Air Quality
Air quality can greatly affect someone with asthma, so it is important to monitor air quality in your home or workplace. Know what kinds of pollutants and allergens may be present in the air, and make sure to keep them to a minimum to best protect your lungs.
Stay Current on Vaccinations
Staying on top of vaccinations can reduce the risk of catching an illness such as the flu, which can severely affect someone with asthma. Talk to your doctor to make sure you are up to date on all recommended vaccinations.
Living with asthma can be difficult, but when done properly, it can be managed. Keeping track of your symptoms and following your doctor’s instructions can go a long way in maintaining your lung health and wellbeing.