Avoid These Things To Prevent Your Asthma Symptoms

Asthma attacks are scary episodes. When they happen to you or a loved one, it is natural to panic and lose control of the situation. While maintaining your calm during an attack is important, perhaps the most important thing you should understand is the things that can trigger an attack. Knowing them can help you to prevent a problem before it turns into an out of control situation.

1. Tobacco smoke

If you are someone who suffers from asthma attacks, you should avoid smoking at all costs. Smoking can constrict your airways and bring about an attack due to the tar and nicotine you are inhaling. If you are a smoker who is not able to quit on your own, seek medical assistance. In addition to quitting smoking, it is also beneficial to stay away from second hand smoke, especially in poorly ventilated spaces.

2. Pollution

Air pollution is a serious problem for those who suffer from asthma. When the air quality is poor, the result can be a devastating attack that quickly spins out of control. While it is not possible to avoid all air pollution, there are some things you can do. Stay indoors during periods of peak heat and humidity. When possible, avoid pollution from exhausts, such as that you are exposed to sitting in traffic during peak rush hour. If attacks are very severe due to this trigger, it is beneficial to consider moving to a less populated, more rural area if at all possible.

3. Strenuous Exercise

Those who suffer from allergies benefit from regular exercise. It helps to open airways and increases the circulation of oxygen within the body. That being said, sometimes excessive exercise can be dangerous, and it might even bring about an asthma attack. Avoid exercising in excessively hot conditions or prolonging difficult and strenuous exercise programs. If you are having difficulty breathing, don't try to push yourself. Instead, take a break and get some water. You can always return to your exercise once your body has had an opportunity to rest for a bit.

4. Strong Chemicals

Chemicals can omit gases that are dangerous to the respiratory system and prompt an asthma attack. Fortunately, avoiding such chemicals in your home is relatively simple. Consider purchasing natural cleaning products or using homemade products such as vinegar and baking soda based cleansers. If you must use a chemical such as bleach or ammonia, make sure to do so only in a well ventilated area. Open all windows, turn on fans and consider wearing a mask to protect yourself from breathing in any toxic gases. Finally, never mix chemicals in combination with each other; many can be very dangerous.

An asthma attack is serious, and controlling attacks is beneficial to anyone who suffers from this illness. While it is not always possible to control every environmental trigger, there are some simple steps you can take to lessen the frequency of attacks and improve your quality of life. Follow the steps outlined here and be sure to discuss any concerns related to attacks with your family physician.