How to Control Your Asthma Symptoms

Asthma is a medical condition which affects the lungs. When an asthma attack occurs the airways become constricted, which means they narrow. They may also develop inflammation. This makes breathing difficult. Other symptoms may include, chest tightness, wheezing, coughing and anxiety. Becoming educated and learning ways to control your asthma symptoms may reduce the frequency of attacks.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Identity your triggers. Sometimes an allergen will trigger an asthma attack. Common trigger are perfumes and other strong chemical smells. Animal hair may be a trigger for some. Keep a symptom diary. When symptoms flare up write down what you were doing, who you were around and what environment you were in.

2. Use a preventive medication. Medications which treat asthma symptoms quickly are considered rescue medications. This type of medication should be taken when symptoms occur. It helps open up the airways. The other component of asthma is inflammation. Medications are available which help prevent inflammation from occurring. This type of medication is not a rescue drug, but instead a preventive medication usually taken daily.

3. Learn how to use a peak flow meter. This small device measures the amount of air you can blow out. Place the device between your lips and exhale through your mouth. It is important to record your values daily for a week when you are symptom-free. This helps you determine how much air you can blow out normally. During the early stages of an asthma attack take a measurement with the peak flow meter and determine if you are at your normal levels or how far below. This helps determine the need for medication.

4. Prevent respiratory infections. Getting an infection in the lungs, such as bronchitis, can cause a flare up of asthma symptoms. To prevent infections, get a flu vaccine every year, eat a healthy diet, get regular exercise and enough sleep. All these factors contribute to a healthy immune system. Regular hand washing is also essential in reducing germs.

5. Do relaxation exercises. Some people have asthma attacks which are triggered by stress. Although some stress is normal and maybe unavoidable, there are ways to combat too much stress. Exercise and mediation and spending time pursuing a hobby are a few ways reduce stress.

6. Attach a spacer. Many asthma medications come in the form of an inhaler. A spacer is a small cylinder like device, which attaches to the inhaler. It helps the medication get deposited deeper into the lungs and makes taking the inhaler easier. You can request a spacer from your doctor.

Tips & Warnings

• Recognize signs your asthma is not under control. Frequent symptoms flare ups, using a rescue medication several times a day, or no relief after using medications, may mean your asthma is not under control. A visit to your doctor may be needed. If you are having a difficult time breathing, don't hesitate to call 911. Asthma attacks which become prolonged are harder to reverse and can lead to respiratory failure.

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