Asthma strikes by making it difficult or impossible to breathe properly. It is no wonder the condition is a frightening one. Its onset may be rapid and unforeseeable; it may restrict your activity and even threaten your life. The article below will give you a good understanding of everything you need to know about coping with your attacks and living a fuller life.
If you are suffering from asthma, it is essential that you quit smoking cigarettes. Smoking is a bad habit for everyone, but patients that suffer from asthma are negatively affected by smoke as it cuts the oxygen supply off and induces an asthma attack.
Asthma is a continuous disease that needs ongoing management. Ensure you’re taking the proper medications to manage common symptoms of asthma. In case of an attack, you need to have in your possession a medication that will provide almost instant relief. Find out from your allergist and your doctor what is best for you.
You may want to use a leukotriene inhibitor if your asthma is being particularly problematic. These inhibitors can prevent leukotrienes. Leukotrienes are inflammation-causing chemicals that can bring on asthma attacks. When used properly, an inhibitor can help reduce symptoms and prevent attacks.
Asthma sufferers should take Vitamins E and C. They are believed to aid respiratory function and to be instrumental in keeping your asthma in check. Either find a good vitamin supplement to take, or change your diet to include more foods rich in Vitamins E and C. Vitamins C and E are necessary for a healthy immune system. If your immune system isn’t healthy, it won’t be able to fight off illnesses that cause asthma attacks.
If you have been diagnosed with asthma, you should avoid smoking or even being in the presence of smokers. When you inhale smoke, especially in close quarters, lung functioning is decreased, and it can trigger an attack.
Your asthma medication may need to be adjusted if you become ill. Illnesses like this can often worsen your asthma symptoms, which may require that you up your dosage of certain medications. Your doctor may choose to also add an additional treatment until the illness gets better.
Avoid pillows with feathers if you have asthma. Pillow feathers force the lungs to work harder and can exacerbate asthma problems. The same reasoning applies to all bedding – only purchase bed sheets and comforters that are manufactured from hypoallergenic materials.
Travel with your rescue medication on your person at all times. Traveling can make you more likely to suffer from attacks due to the extra strain and stress on your body. You also have little control over your surroundings as you travel, and this may result in an increase in symptoms or frequency of attacks.
It can be fatal, too, if not controlled or treated. The information in this article should have shed some light on what methods of management are available to asthmatics and what you need to do to be able to live a healthy and happy life with asthma.