Asthma Assistance

People who have asthma understand that having asthma is more than manageable. The way to do it is by knowing what causes asthma symptoms and avoiding them. Suggestions can include knowing what can make your asthma worse, being able to detect signs of an attack, and recognizing when the attack might be getting worse. Asthma patients should work with their physicians to make a plan that will help make living with asthma easier.

Steps to take with asthma include:

- Informing the doctor of all medications you are or plan on taking.

- Create and follow a plan of action when having an asthma attack.

- Visit the doctor regularly.

- Learn about what your medications do and how to take them correctly.

- Inform your doctor when you are having issues taking the medication(s).

Avoid things that cause asthma or make it worse. Some suggestions for avoiding these things are:

- If you have a pet with dander that bothers you, make sure that pet is kept either out of the house or at least out of the bedroom and make sure to bathe the pet frequently.

- Don’t smoke and don’t allow others to smoke around you

- If you are allergic to pollen, then avoid the outdoors and use the air conditioner, especially during the spring.

- Prevent illness by receiving proper medical care, such as flu shots and medications that help when you get sick.

- When it is cold outside make sure to wear a scarf to cover your face.

- Work with your doctor to find physical activities that wont increase your symptoms.

- Avoid allergens.

Make sure you are aware of possible signs of an attack. Steps you can take to make sure you know the signs are: observing your own symptoms, taking the proper medications, and using a peak flow meter if you have one.