If you suffer from asthma, it is essential that you learn effective asthma management techniques. Asthma is caused by airway swelling and constriction. Excess mucus is produced during an asthma attack and makes breathing difficult. The severity of asthma symptoms vary from person to person. Some people have slightly annoying coughing, sneezing and shortness of breath around certain triggers, while others can have life threatening asthma attacks. Most people with asthma will have to use an inhaler to halt the progression of an asthma attack. Having an asthma management plan will not only help you have less attacks but it will put your mind at ease because you will be more prepared.
Asthma Management
Whether your asthma symptoms are light, moderate or severe, you need to learn asthma management. In learning how to manage your asthma, you will first need to determine what triggers your asthma problems. Write down every instance of asthma occurrences. Record every respiratory irritation, including the time of day, activity you were doing and the severity of the attack. Bring this with you to your doctors appointments and share with your doctor. From this, your doctor will be able to diagnose you much easier and come up with a personalized treatment plan.
A common asthma trigger is “exercise induced” asthma. When the weather is cold and dry it causes the airway much irritation and can lead to asthma attacks. This can be avoided simply by not exercising outside when the weather is cold. Practicing Yoga can be very helpful to people with asthma. The deep, slow breathing oxygenates the blood and calms the nervous system. This breathing practice can be put into use the next time you feel an attack coming on. Being mindful of your breathe is a great tool in your asthma management plan.
Another irritant to asthma sufferers is pet dander. Dander is simply the dead skin cells from a dog or cat. Dander causes inflammation in the airway of people with asthma. If you have a strong reaction to pet dander it’s best to not have a pet in the house. If the pet must remain in the house, the animal must not be allowed on the furniture or bed. Dust mites also can cause asthma attacks. Dust mites are microscopic bugs that live in bedding and feed on our dead skin cells. Wash your sheets weekly, and change your pillows every six months. It’s a good idea to vacuum your mattress with the detachable wand regularly. This way, you can considerably cut down on the amount of dust mites that are living in your mattress. Being aware of the air you are breathing is essential to your asthma management. If you live in a big city or an area that is prone to smog, try to limit your outings on days when the smog index is particularly high. Never allow anyone to smoke in your home or car, and don’t visit the home of a smoker or allow them to smoke around you. Cigarette smoke is far too irritating for asthma sufferers.
Asthma Management – The Conclusion
Do not live in fear of your next asthma attack. Rather, be prepared by bringing your inhaler with you wherever you go. Follow your doctors orders when it comes to your medication. Try to relax and let go of stress. Stress can be an asthma trigger and it’s not healthy for anyone. Being mindful of your triggers, the air you are breathing and your emotions will help you to better manage your asthma. With an effective asthma management plan, good health can be maintained.
