Here are some smart steps to take if you have asthma:
1. Don’t smoke – this is plain common sense. If you smoke you are making your asthma worse. Tobacco smoke damages cilia, the tiny hair-like structures that sweep dust and mucus out of the airways. Tobacco smoke damages cilia so they are unable to work, allowing dust and mucus to accumulate in the airways. When more mucus builds up in the airways it can result in triggering an attack.
Inhaling second-hand smoke, may be even more harmful than actually smoking. The smoke that burns off the end of a cigar or cigarette contains harmful substances such as tar, carbon monoxide, nicotine, and others. When a person with asthma is exposed to second-hand smoke it may result in wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.
When a child is exposed to tobacco smoke, his lungs become irritated and produce more mucus than normal and can also affect lung function in later life. Children with asthma are also more susceptible to developing lung and sinus infections making asthma symptoms more difficult to control.
2. Management of Triggers – Recognize what triggers you come in contact with and take steps to avoid them. Such triggers may include tobacco smoke, pet dander, dust mites, mold, pollen, chemical fumes, fragrances, and other triggers that may set off seasonal allergies.
3. Daily Self-Management – You should visit your doctor at least once per year or whenever your asthma symptoms change to discuss a daily management plan. Follow your doctor’s instructions and discuss any questions and concerns that you may have with your doctor.
4. Self-Monitoring with Peak Flow Meter – A peak flow meter measures how fast you can blow air out of your lungs. Your doctor may recommend that you check your peak flow every day, only when you have symptoms, or periodically depending on your personal needs.
5. Inhaled Medications – An inhaler may be used to give you quick relief from symptoms of an asthma attack. Be sure to keep a full supply of your reliever medications on hand in case of an asthma attack. Most doctors recommend that a nebulizer and reliever medication be kept on hand for young children. A breathing treatment using a nebulizer may be the best source of relief for young children that are not yet able to use an inhaler, or may even be used in conjuction with an inhaler.
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