Summary:
Effectively managing asthma requires more than just medical intervention; it involves active participation in asthma self-help strategies. While your doctor may prescribe medications, your daily efforts play a crucial role in controlling and mitigating the impact of asthma on your life.
Keywords: asthma, self-treatment, tips
Article Body:
Successfully managing asthma is a collaborative effort between you and your doctor. Asthma self-help is a vital component of treating and controlling the condition to prevent it from dominating your daily life. While your doctor may prescribe both daily and acute episode medications, the responsibility of minimizing the risk of asthma attacks and daily self-care largely falls on you and your family. Adopting key asthma self-help practices can empower you to keep your asthma under control and maintain a fulfilling daily life.
As asthma can be influenced or exacerbated by various factors, there are several actions you can take to reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms. Your doctor will provide essential recommendations, constituting a personalized asthma self-help plan. An integral aspect of asthma self-help involves steering clear of asthma triggers. Here are some ways to assist yourself or a family member with asthma:
1- Adhere to Your Doctor’s Instructions:
- Follow your doctor’s orders diligently, including the continuation of daily medications even when symptoms improve.
- If your doctor has recommended daily peak flow measurements, adhere to the instructions to monitor your condition regularly.
2- Quit Smoking:
- If you smoke, quitting is imperative. Cigarette smoke is a well-known asthma trigger.
3- Maintain a Dust-Free Environment:
- Minimize dust in your living space by using a cylinder vacuum cleaner, preferably one with a canister to trap dust.
4- Address Carpets and Draperies:
- Remove or frequently vacuum carpets and heavy draperies, which can trap dust and breed dust mites.
5- Opt for Allergy-Friendly Bedding:
- Avoid down feather pillows and comforters, and use a plastic cover on your mattress to reduce exposure to dust mites.
6- Protect Against Cold Air:
- Cover your mouth and nose with a scarf in cold weather, as cold air is a common asthma trigger.
7- Monitor Outdoor Air Quality:
- Stay informed about daily air quality, especially during peak pollen seasons, and avoid open fields and wooded areas.
8- Combat Mold:
- Keep mold at bay by promptly drying wet laundry and regularly cleaning and disinfecting bathrooms and showers.
9- Manage Pet Exposure:
- If pet dander triggers asthma, limit exposure by keeping pets out of the bedroom.
10- Address Allergies:
- Be aware of food or ingested allergies, and avoid substances that cause allergic reactions.