Having to deal with asthma every day is one of the many health conditions that millions of people all around the world suffer. Asthma is classified as a chronic pulmonary condition which is characterized by inflammation of the airways or the bronchi of the lungs. Inflammation of the airways significantly affects the flow of air into and out of the lungs causing disruption in breathing.
Asthma is also an allergic reaction to many types of triggers including dust, chemicals, home cleaners, fragrance, animal hair, smoke, dust mites, pollen, food and medicines. Asthma is also a genetic condition; it runs in families as well as conditions like allergic rhinitis. If you are suffering from asthma and would like to know how to manage this health condition better, talk to your doctor for the ideal asthma management plan. You will likely be given medications to be taken regularly to manage your allergies as well as a treatment plan that will go this way:
1. Know your asthma triggers and try to avoid these as much as possible. If you are diagnosed with asthma due to an occupational hazard, consider wearing protective clothing like masks, goggles, gowns and gloves or better consider changing careers to fully reduce your allergy triggers.
2. Reduce dust accumulation at home. Vacuum more often and remove areas where dust can accumulate like knick knacks, stuff toys, books and litter. Try to keep an orderly and clean home to manage allergies better.
3. Talk to a dietician to choose foods that will reduce asthma flare-ups. Avoid processed foods and commercially prepared foods which are rich in preservatives and additives. Shop for ingredients and cook foods yourself to reduce any ingredients that may aggravate asthma.
4. Overexertion or overdoing activities can also lead to asthma. Try to gradually increase activities instead. Always have your maintenance or emergency medication ready wherever you are to reduce asthma symptoms right away.
5. Remove pets from the home. Pet hair and dander are the most common triggers of asthma. Place pets outside the home if possible.
6. Mold may trigger asthma so reduce moisture build-up in kitchens, bathrooms, shower stalls, laundry areas and basements by using an exhaust fan. Regularly inspect air conditioning ducts, humidifiers, vaporizer, house plants, closets, under sinks and dark areas for mold or fungus growth. Have a professional contractor deal with mold and fungus growth.
7. Grass or newly cut grass can also induce asthma flare-ups. Try to avoid being outside when the grass is cut or mowed. Close your windows as much as possible to reduce pollen and polluted air from entering the home. Opt for air conditioning to cool your home during the summer months and use a filter to remove minute particles that can cause asthma like pollen, dust, animal hair and even small dust mites.
8. Always follow up or consult your doctor for worsening asthma especially when you need to manage asthma outside the home. Be cautious about home remedies or natural cure-all remedies; always consult your doctor if you want to try supplements and treatments for asthma.