When summer rolls around, many of us look forward to taking vacations and relaxing poolside.
But for some of the millions of Americans who suffer from asthma, the rising temperatures and longer days signal a time to be on guard and prepared for potential asthma triggers.
Asthma is a disease that causes the airways of the lungs to swell and narrow, leading to wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness and coughing. As such, asthma is serious and can even be fatal on occasion.
The following tips can help asthma sufferers breathe better this summer:
Know Your Triggers
Understanding what causes your asthma symptoms is a crucial step to preventing them. Some people’s asthma symptoms are triggered by an allergic reaction, some asthmatics experience a reaction during exercise, and others may react to certain medications, infections or heartburn. Different types of asthma call for different treatments, and an asthma specialist can help you learn how to manage yours.
Steer Clear of Chemical Irritants
The smell of chlorine and household products, such as cleaners and air fresheners, can aggravate the airways and cause an asthma flare-up. Opt for swimming in outdoor pools, which have better air circulation than indoor pools, and wear a surgical mask when cleaning.
Eat S’mores, Not Smoke
Campfire smoke can exacerbate asthma, but that doesn’t mean that asthmatics can’t enjoy bonfire activities like roasting marshmallows. To help prevent an asthma attack, be sure to sit upwind of the smoke.
Check the Weather and Air Quality Index
Dramatic changes in temperature; windy weather and thunderstorms that stir up pollen and mold; air pollution; and hot, humid air can all irritate the airways. Try to avoid the outdoors if the forecast, air quality index or allergy count isn’t in your favor.
Keep an Inhaler Close
If your asthma is triggered by an allergen, use your prescribed inhaler as soon as you notice the symptoms. Seek medical help if the symptoms don’t subside. If your asthma is exercise-induced, use your prescribed inhaler 10 minutes before you exercise. Also, a warm up may help decrease wheezing.
Develop an Asthma Action Plan
Build a plan with your doctor that explains when it is appropriate to self-treat the disease and when you should go to the hospital.
Everyone’s asthma is a little bit different but for those who are particularly sensitive during the summer months, the season may seem to drag on. But with a few tweaks to your normal routine, summer will breeze by.