Staying Healthy with Asthma: Caring for and treating asthma is important for those that live with the condition to live each day comfortably without flare-ups. It’s important to recognize the signs of an asthma flare-up, know about asthma triggers, and work with an asthma specialist to develop a treatment plan you can rely on. Read more to learn about caring for your asthma and the steps you can take to stay healthy this year.
Asthma is a chronic disease of the respiratory system that causes the airways to narrow, swell, and produce extra mucus. When something triggers an asthma flare-up, it causes difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing, and chest tightness. It’s important to know about some of the common asthma triggers to help manage your asthma. Here are some of our tips for what to avoid and what to do for caring and treating your asthma.
Avoid smoke at all costs!
This one might be obvious, but it’s important that those with asthma stay away from smoke as much as possible to avoid an allergy flare-up. Even if you do not know any smokers, be cautious of events where there may be smoke in the air, such as bonfires, barbecues, and cookouts. Also, keep in mind that outdoor air pollution can also trigger a flare-up, so be sure to watch the air quality if you are traveling to an area that experiences pollution in the air.
Remove dust, mold, and other triggers from your home.
Creating a healthy and safe space at home is key to staying healthy and keeping your asthma flare-ups at bay. Be sure to clean regularly throughout the home to eliminate dust and debris. Mop up any standing water to avoid mold spores in the air and if you have pets, be sure to vacuum and keep them out of all bedrooms. Allergy shots can also help with pet allergies.
Get vaccinated and wear a mask to help avoid COVID-19
COVID-19 is a disease that can trigger a respiratory tract infection. It can affect your upper respiratory tract (sinuses, nose, and throat) or lower respiratory tract (windpipe and lungs). Those that have asthma, they can be more at risk for experiencing complications from the virus. It’s important that those with asthma consider getting vaccinated if they haven’t already and wear a mask while in public.
Carry asthma medication at all times.
Having a rescue inhaler (or quick-relief inhalers) on hand is crucial to those that have asthma. These medications are used to ease asthma symptoms and can be lifesaving in the event of a severe asthma attack. They relax the muscles that tighten around your airways and help open them up so you can breathe easier. It’s important to work with an asthma specialist to ensure the right medication is prescribed.
Asthma Treatment in Houston, Texas
At McGovern Allergy & Asthma Clinic, our board-certified asthma and allergy specialists can help develop a treatment plan to relieve your asthma symptoms and work with you to provide the right medications. If you need help managing your asthma, call our office at 713-661-1444 or request an appointment online. https://mcgovernallergy.com/request-an-appointment-online/