By: Don Rondeau
Asthma is an illness that causes the air passages in the lungs to be irritated, and to swell. As a result, the airways may also become smaller, and you may have trouble breathing, a tight feeling in your chest, or wheezing. An asthma attack happens when your airways narrow which makes it hard for you to breathe. Asthma attacks are also called flare-ups or episodes.
Asthma can be frightening, but it can be treated. With time and working with your doctor, you can learn how to care for your asthma. Your doctor can prescribe medicines that can control the airway swelling. You can help by avoiding things that irritate your airways, such as tobacco smoke.
Your asthma may change with time. You may get new allergies or your asthma may get better or worse. Your doctor may need to change your treatment plan if your asthma changes. Remember that asthma can be managed and you should be able to live a normal life.
There are some tips to help you avoid an asthma attack:
1) If you are given a prescription for medicine, use it as exactly as ordered by your doctor. This means that you should not take more or less than the prescribed dosage, or skip doses.
2) Whether you are at work or at home, avoid pollen, dust, animal dander, molds, smoke, and other things that might trigger an asthma attack.
3) You may have fewer attacks if you decrease the amount of dust in your home. One good way to do this is to invest in a quality air purifier.
4) Replace or cover your pillows or mattress with non-allergenic materials. Some hypersensitive asthma sufferers have reported significant decreases in the severity and frequency of attacks by using non-allergenic bedding.
5) Exercise may help, so discuss an exercise routine with your doctor. Never undertake any exercise routine on your own.
If you have any of the following signs, it might be an indication that your asthma is getting worse. You should make an appointment with your doctor to review these symptoms.
1) If you are using a flow meter, a drop in your peak flow below 80% of your personal best.
2) A cough, wheezing, or trouble breathing. Remember that you may have these symptoms even if you are taking medicine to control your asthma.
3) You have chest pain.
4) You have not been able to do your usual activities or exercise.
Remember, asthma can be treated and with the right regimen, you can lead a normal healthy and happy life.
