Asthma is a condition whereby your airways constrict, swell, and may produce extra mucus, causing breathing difficulties. Duluth asthma is a minor nuisance for some people, but for others, it can be a major problem that interferes with everyday activities. Other times it may result in a life-threatening asthma attack. Although there is no cure for asthma, taking the following steps can help you keep your asthma in control and prevent attacks.

Identify your triggers

Exposure to certain asthma triggers can trigger asthma symptoms. There are several asthma triggers, and they vary from person to person. They can include:

• Cold air
•  Airborne allergens, like pet dander, dust mites, pollen, or cockroach waste particles
• Smoke
• The common cold
• Physical activity
• Certain medications, such as aspirin, beta-blockers, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Stress
• Fragrances

Identifying what triggers your asthma symptoms and avoiding them is vital in preventing asthma attacks. To do this, keep a journal where you track your asthma symptoms for several weeks. When you experience an attack, check your diary to see a thing or combination of things that could have triggered the attack. Some triggers, like mold and cockroach waste particles, are not always obvious. Your doctor may recommend tests to help you find the allergens you respond to and then take steps to avoid them.

Adhere to your asthma action plan

Your doctor and healthcare team may help you write a detailed plan for taking medications and managing an asthma attack. It is vital to follow your schedule even when you feel okay. For example, if your plan states to keep an inhaler with you, do so. Your asthma action plan may also include medications for asthma symptoms. The plan also tells you what meds will help you during an attack and when to see your doctor. Asthma is an ongoing condition requiring regular treatment and monitoring. Taking charge of your treatment can make you feel more in control of your life.

Stay current with vaccinations.

The flu virus is a common trigger for asthma symptoms. Therefore, ensure you get the flu shot yearly to protect against the flu virus. Asthma also increases your risk of complications from the flu, like pneumonia. Therefore, you want to get vaccinated for pneumonia once every five years. Healthcare providers also recommend the Tdap vaccine to protect against diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough. A zoster vaccine will keep you safe from shingles.

Monitor your breathing

Your lung function may decrease before you notice any signs and symptoms, so you want to regularly measure and record your peak airflow with a home peak flow meter. A peak flow meter measures how hard you can exhale or breathe out. Your healthcare provider can show you how to use a peak flow meter to monitor your peak flow at home.

Take your medications as prescribed.

Do not change or stop taking your medicines without talking to your doctor, even if your asthma seems to improve.

If you have asthma, book an appointment with your doctor at Allergy and Asthma Institute, LLC, to learn more about preventing asthma attacks.