Regardless of how long you may have had it, asthma can still be a frightening concept for you or your loved ones. Know what asthma may do, what the condition is, and how to manage it properly. Always know what could possibly happen, learn to spot the warning signs, and be prepared to react if you can’t prevent them.
If you’ve been diagnosed with asthma, it is crucial that you understand how to properly use your inhaler. Spraying it into your mouth and then inhaling doesn’t work. Make sure when you spray your inhaler that you take in deep breaths for short periods of time. Without proper breathing techniques with your inhaler, your symptoms will worsen.
When housecleaning, it is better to clean your floors with a damp mop than sweeping them with a broom. If you choose to sweep, you’re swirling up a tornado of dust and allergens, both of which are common triggers for asthma symptoms. When you dust, use a damp cloth instead of a feather duster which can spread these triggers.
See a specialist. Your usual doctor will be able to help you, but you should also consider seeing a specialist. Some specialists to consider visiting are those who deal directly with allergies or nutrition. This is a great way to attack asthma from all angles.
Don’t panic when you have an asthma attack. Grab your inhaler and use it, then wait to see if it helps. If not, then use it again in thirty seconds. If your attack worsens, get help. Go to the emergency room, or call an ambulance if it’s extreme. Inhaling and exhaling into a paper bag can slow your breathing while en route.
It is important to know the warning signs of an impending asthma attack so you can get medical help for your child if one strikes. Such symptoms include lips and fingernails that are turning blue and no reaction to the asthma medication. In addition, you may not be able to understand your child when he speaks.
Don’t smoke. Most people are aware of the dangers of smoking, but for someone with asthma, the consequences are even more serious. Smoke can severely irritate an asthma sufferer’s lungs; so, if you do suffer from asthma, stay away from both smoking and being around smoke in general.
Use the inhaler properly. Move to a quiet area, and then simply follow manufacturer’s instructions. The medicine must go to your lungs for it to work. Inhale the air and spray the right amount down your throat. You should hold your breath 10 seconds so the medicated mist is able to fill up your lungs.
For asthma sufferers having contact with pets or other animals need to be minimized. Asthmatics can be affected by the dander or pollen that comes from the animals, even if they have no allergies to them. This can be a very risky situation to put yourself in and should be avoided.
As was earlier stated, there is plenty of information you have to know about asthma. This article is a small portion of the information that is available when it comes to asthma and it’s management. Working in tandem, it is possible for you to greatly ameliorate the effects of asthma on your daily existence.
