Asthma can be a crippling and inconveniencing ailment. Read on to learn how you can prevent asthma attacks at home.
Asthma is a chronic lung disease that inflames and narrows the airways, causing recurrent breathing problems, wheezing, and coughing. There is no cure for asthma but it can be controlled with precautions and proper treatment.
Most asthma attacks are caused by allergic reactions and can be prevented with simple measures.
1. Bedroom
Wash beddings at least once a week in hot water (above 130° F) to get rid of dust mites. Use a dehumidifier to reduce excess moisture. You can also use allergy-proof covers on pillows and mattresses. Avoid carpets and stuffed toys in bedrooms.
2. Pet dander
Pet dander is a common asthma trigger. Hence, do not allow pets in bedrooms or on furniture. Avoid contact with pets if the problem gets aggravated.
3. Mould allergy
Mould spores are another common asthma trigger. Mould spores get into your nose and cause hay fever symptoms. They can also reach the lungs and trigger asthma attacks. Remove household plants and keep bathrooms clean and dry.
4. Breathing smoke
Smoke can trigger an asthma attack. Avoid areas where people smoke. While travelling, ask for a smoke-free hotel room. Fumes from household cleaners can also trigger asthma. Avoid harsh cleaning products and chemicals.
5. Stress
Intense emotions and worry worsen asthma symptoms. Take steps to relieve stress. Spend time doing things that make you happy and help you relax.
6. Extreme weather
Limit outdoor activity when the weather outside is extremely hot and humid or the air quality is poor. Avoid going out if a pollution alert has been issued.
7. Workout
Physical activity is very important for asthma patients. Work out indoors on very cold or very warm days, to reduce the risk of exercise-induced asthma attacks. It is possible to prevent exercise-induced asthma symptoms by using an inhaled bronchodilator before exercising.
Be Prepared
Asthma attacks can take place at any moment. Those suffering from the disease must make sure people around them while at home, office or in school are aware of the symptoms of an asthma attack and know what to do if one occurs.
Keep quick-relief asthma medicines readily available. Inhalers and any other emergency medication are necessary to have around.
The location of the nearest hospital – from home, office, school – must be known. While travelling, find out the nearest emergency facility in advance, so that there is no crisis when asthma strikes.
Managing Asthma
Apart from learning to identify and avoid the asthma triggers, patients can also learn ways to manage asthma attacks. Patients with asthma need to take prescribed medications to prevent or relieve their symptoms.
It is not necessary that a patient live with asthma throughout her/his life. Some people stop having asthma attacks, as they get older. Others become adept at avoiding the things that trigger asthma. Asthma is a chronic disease that requires care and treatment. It is safer if one can become adept at preventing or minimising breathing problems. Also, protect yourself by availing of a comprehensive health insurance cover, to provide you with financial assistance for treatment in the future.
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