Over 27 million Americans struggle with asthma, and many of them have severe cases. At Impact Medical, we’re committed to turning your struggle into a success story with tailored strategies that enhance your daily life.
Discover What’s Triggering Your Asthma
Understanding and avoiding triggers is crucial for managing severe asthma, which often presents with more frequent and intense symptoms than milder forms. Here are some common triggers and strategies to manage them:
Dust Mites
These tiny pests thrive in warm, humid environments, feeding on dead skin cells. Minimize your exposure by using an allergen-proof mattress and pillow covers, washing bedding in hot water weekly, and maintaining low indoor humidity.
Pet Dander
Pets can be a significant source of dander, which aggravates asthma symptoms. Limit pets’ access to certain areas of your home, especially bedrooms, and ensure they are bathed and groomed regularly to reduce dander.
Air Pollution and Smoke
Airborne pollutants from vehicles, industrial activity, and smoking can trigger asthma. Stay indoors during high pollution days, use air purifiers with HEPA filters, and maintain a smoke-free environment.
Stress and Emotional Factors
Emotional stress can exacerbate asthma symptoms by inducing physiological changes that lead to inflammation. Incorporate stress-reduction techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga into your daily routine.
Cold Air and Weather Changes
Sudden changes in weather, particularly cold air, can tighten your airways. Wear a scarf over your nose and mouth in cold weather and monitor weather reports to prepare for changes that might affect your asthma.
Lifestyle Changes That Make a Difference
Managing severe asthma extends beyond medication. Here are effective lifestyle adjustments that can support your asthma treatment plan:
Regular Exercise
Exercise improves lung function and overall health, but always consult with your healthcare provider to tailor activities to your condition, especially if you experience exercise-induced symptoms.
Healthy Diet
Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can support lung health and reduce inflammation. Foods high in antioxidants, like berries and leafy greens, may also protect against asthma symptoms.
Stay Hydrated
Adequate hydration is critical, as dehydration can trigger respiratory issues. Aim for 8-10 glasses of water a day, more if you’re active or if it’s hot outside.
Follow an Asthma Action Plan
Having a written asthma action plan can help you better manage your asthma and know what to do in case of a flare-up. This plan should include how to recognize symptoms, when to take medication, and when to seek medical help. It’s important to regularly review and adjust the plan as needed with your healthcare provider.
Managing Medications
Medication is a crucial component of severe asthma management, and it’s essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to find the best treatment plan for you. Depending on your condition, you may need a combination of medications, including:
- Quick-relief (rescue) inhalers: These are used for immediate relief during an asthma attack and contain short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs) to open the airways.
- Long-term control medications: These are taken daily to reduce inflammation and prevent asthma symptoms. They include inhaled corticosteroids, long-acting beta-agonists (LABAs), leukotriene modifiers, and biologic therapies.
- Oral corticosteroids: In severe cases, oral corticosteroids may be prescribed for short-term use to manage severe asthma symptoms and reduce inflammation in the airways.
Manage Your Asthma With Impact Medical
At Impact Medical, we’re dedicated to helping you manage your severe asthma and improve your quality of life. Whether it’s refining your current treatment plan, exploring new medication options, or developing strategies to avoid triggers, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Book an appointment today to get started on your path to better asthma management.