Anyone suffering from asthma knows that it can be difficult to control. Understanding your symptoms and communicating regularly with your doctor will allow you to control your asthma rather than let it control you.

Asthma is a chronic condition of the respiratory system that causes inflammation in the bronchial tubes preventing sufficient air to the lungs. It is estimated that more than 17 million Americans have asthma and over 5 million deaths a year are related to complications from this disease. This needn’t occur. Patients suffering from asthma can live active healthy lives and be relatively symptom free if they follow certain common-sense practices.

Asthma can occur at any age. If you suspect that you have symptoms of the disease ask yourself the following questions:

1. Do I have trouble breathing?
2. Am I wheezing?
3. Have I been coughing more than usual?
4. Is shortness of breath affecting my daily routine?
5. How often have I felt a tightening in my chest?
6. Can I do the tasks I used to do or do I become easily tired?
7. Am I breathing normally or am I taking rapid shallow breaths?

If you answered yes to any of these questions you should make an appointment to see your doctor.
Those who have been already diagnosed with asthma are aware that certain triggers set off an attack.
Asthma triggers are usually from one or more of the following:

1. Exercise
2. Dust
3. Tobacco smoke
4. Cockroaches
5. Pets
6. Allergies- Nasal Allergies and Allergies to Mold or Pollen etc.
7. Stress

The good news is that with proper diagnosis most modern treatments work. Inhaled or oral steroids are most effective in treating the problem and help you to become your old self again.

There are warning signs to alert you to the fact that certain medicines are not working:

1. Difficulty sleeping through the night.
2. Missing work due to breathing problems
3. Unable to function normally
4. Having to go to the emergency room

If you feel a trip to the Doctor is warranted because of severe symptoms or to find out if you are a sufferer; plan in advance. If you find you are using your inhaler more than twice a week that is a definite indication that a visit is due.

• Explain to the scheduling nurse the reason for your visit and request that she set aside ample time.
• Before the visit, write out a list of questions you wish to ask.
• Ask if a simple lung test called a spirometry is warranted. This test is relatively painless and examines how your lungs are working.
• Tell your doctor to write out an action plan for you to follow.

You also have responsibilities.

• Avoid the triggers, secondhand smoke isn’t good for anyone it certainly can’t help you.
• If you have allergies to pets stay firm when your children request one.
• Your environment affects you. Moving may be difficult but if it will improve your health it is your responsibility to change your surroundings.

Remember to take your medicines in a timely manner. Set reminders if you need to.

Keep a diary that records your triggers as well as attack free days. This can help you see those things you need to avoid.

Life may be stressful but your heath is more important. If you see yourself getting overexcited stop what you are doing and count to ten.

Millions of Americans have asthma and continue to lead active healthy lives. Following a healthy regimen will allow you to remain relatively symptom free.

Types of Medicines:

• Quick Relief - For immediate relief from an episode
• Long–Term Controlled
• Medical Inhalers
• Alternative Therapies
• Your Doctor will prescribe what’s most effective for you

Did you know? You may be entitled to disability benefits? For more information visit www.allsupinc.com or call 1 800 279 4357

For More Information:

www.respiratory institute.com
www.webmd.com

By Joan Schauder