Tips to prevent an asthma attack
Here are some ways you can help prevent an asthma attack. Remember, everyone is different. Some people have trouble with pollen, others have trouble with tobacco smoke, and others may have trouble with animal dander. Follow the steps that make sense for you.
• Wash your pet once a week.
• Do not smoke.
• Do not allow smoking in your home.
• Stay indoors with the air conditioner on when the pollen count is high.
• Wash your bedding, clothes, and stuffed toys once a week in hot water.
• Wash your hands often.
• Get a flu shot.
• Wear a scarf over your mouth and nose in the winter.
• Be aware of what makes you have asthma attacks and try to stay away from those triggers.
• Follow your asthma treatment plan.
Most asthma episodes or attacks start slowly. Most people can tell when an asthma episode is coming. You can often stop an asthma episode when you catch it early and take your medicine. If you fail to do this, your symptoms may get worse. Learn what your warning signs are.
Make a plan with your doctor or nurse about what to do when you notice warning signs such as:
• Drop in peak flow rate
• Coughing
• Shortness of breath
• Tightness in your chest
• Wheezing
• Faster breathing
• Itchy or sore throat
Source: National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute.
