Asthma is a chronic condition affecting roughly 17,000 people in the United States. It can be a debilitating disease, but many people find that taking a few simple steps can make coping with asthma much easier. Asthma doesn’t have to define your life.

Reducing Allergens

For many people, asthma flare-ups are linked to specific allergens. If you know that certain things may bring on a flare-up, try to avoid them. Avoid going outside during pollen season, and keep all windows shut. Keep a dust free house. If dry air irritates your lungs, use a humidifier. However, be sure to avoid excessive humidity, since this can contribute to mold, a common asthma trigger. Pet dander is another common trigger. Consider giving up any pets or at least limiting them to certain areas of the house.

Exercising

Exercising can help control and manage your asthma symptoms. Exercise leads to increased lung capacity, which means that even when your airways are restricted, airflow will not be as drastically reduced. Many people experience asthma attacks as a result of exercise, so consult with your physician on how to avoid attacks while still exercising.

This may mean taking medication shortly before a workout or avoiding working out outdoor when it’s cold or the air quality is bad. You might also want to modify your workout to suit your ability. Many people with asthma benefit from swimming, since the warm, humid environment can help prevent attacks. Gentler exercises such as yoga are also beneficial, while not increasing the danger.

Using a Peak Flow Meter

A peak flow meter measures how well your lungs are working. Get your doctor’s help with taking a baseline reading, and then take readings every day and compare to the baseline. If your lungs are functioning at reduced capacity, you are at increased risk of an attack, even if you are not feeling ill. Bear this in mind and take preventive measures.

Monitoring Your Medications

Always take all your medications exactly as prescribed, this will help cut down on complications. If the medications are giving you unpleasant side effects, or you are feeling better and think you may be able to reduce the number of medications you take, talk to your doctor. Do not make any changes to your treatment schedule without first talking to your physician.

Developing an Action Plan

Figure out exactly what steps you need to take in an emergency and write them down. Keep these instructions with you at all times. They can help reassure you and keep you focused if you are having an attack. They can also help others assist you. Make sure to include information about your asthma triggers so that anyone who’s helping you will know to keep you away from them.

Utilizing Support Groups

It can help to talk to others who are going through the same thing. They can offer tips about how to deal with certain situations or just lend a sympathetic ear. Community support groups exist in most towns and cities. If you live in a rural area, you may want to consider joining a virtual support group online.

http://www.cdc.gov/asthma/asthmadata.htm
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/asthma