5 Ways to Reduce Asthma Symptoms

Millions of people in the United States are living with asthma, a condition that causes your airway to become narrow, swollen, and inflamed, resulting in breathing difficulties. Some people live with minor asthma and alleviate their symptoms with rescue inhalers, while others require longer-acting inhalers and oral steroids to control their symptoms. There is no known cure for asthma, but you might have some luck reducing your asthma symptoms by doing some of the following things.

Seeking Help From Healthcare Professionals

If you visit your local wellness center, you might be surprised by how many asthma treatment options are offered. For example, some people experience success with spinal manipulation. According to some chiropractors, spinal manipulation might reduce cortisol levels, resulting in some relief for those experiencing common asthma symptoms.

Identify Your Triggers

Sometimes, being aware of your asthma triggers can put you in a strong position to minimize your symptoms. For example, if you were triggered by air pollution, cold air, or fragrances, you might limit your exposure to these triggers as much as possible to keep your symptoms at bay. If you’re unsure what triggers your symptoms the most, keep a diary and write down your environment and actions when asthma symptoms present themselves.

Prevent Colds and the Flu

Colds and the flu are some of the leading causes of asthma flare-ups, and regular asthma medication isn’t always enough to ensure your comfort. Many people living with asthma who come down with colds also experience asthma symptoms for several weeks alongside their standard cold and flu symptoms.

There is no 100% effective way to avoid getting a cold or the flu, but there are some actions you can take to potentially reduce the risk. Talk to your doctor about flu and pneumonia vaccinations and avoid contact with sick people. It’s also important to wash your hands often, avoid sharing your inhaler with others, and refrain from touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.

Reduce Allergens In Your Home

The average home can be uncomfortable to live in if you have allergic asthma that flares up with dust, mold, pet dander, and other allergens. You might experience coughs, wheezing, chest pain, and shortness of breath that can often have you reaching for your rescue inhaler more often than not.

While you might not be able to remove all allergens from your home, simple actions might improve your comfort. Use dust mite-proof covers on pillows and mattresses, wash sheets and blankets in warm water once a week, and replace carpets with hardwood or linoleum floors. Closing windows during pollen season, removing dust-collecting clutter, and using HEPA filters in your air conditioning units might also help keep your asthma symptoms at bay.

Stay Away From Smoke

Most people already know that asthma is more severe in people who smoke cigarettes, but some people can also be triggered by other types of smoke. Fireplaces, candles, and even incense might all lead to significant discomfort. If you smoke as an asthmatic, seek help to quit. You might also reduce asthma symptoms by not traveling in vehicles or entering homes where smokers are present.

Asthma is not a curable condition, but that doesn’t mean it’s not manageable. Alongside relying on healthcare professionals for appropriate medication and advice, you might be able to alleviate some symptoms by taking these actions above.

This article does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors or management of EconoTimes