Health Focus: Tips for dealing with Asthma

 Asthma is a long-term inflammatory disease which obstructs the airways of the lungs.

Symptoms

Shortness of breath; wheezing; coughing and tightness in the chest.

Common triggers of an asthma attack include:

The airway of a person with asthma is extremely sensitive and tends to overreact when there is exposure to a trigger. Some common triggers include pollens, pet dander, dust mites, mold, certain drugs, food additives, smoke, chemical fumes, cold, flu and other illnesses.

Tips to prevent an asthma attack

Keep your surroundings clean and dust free

Consume a healthy diet

Stay indoor during high pollen time

Avoid smoking and alcohol

Avoid spicy foods

Do not use rugs or carpet in bedroom

Proper use of your inhaler (puffer) is important when you have asthma.

Steps for proper use of your inhaler
  1. Remove cap (some must be squeezed at the sides to release)
  2. Check dose counter (if device has one)
  3. Hold inhaler upright and shake well
  4. Breathe out gently (away from inhaler)
  5. Put mouthpiece between teeth (without biting) and close lips to form good seal
  6. Start to breathe in slowly through mouth and at the same time press down firmly on canister
  7. Continue to breathe in slowly and deeply
  8. Hold breath for about 5 seconds or as long as comfortable
  9. While holding breath, remove inhaler from mouth
  10. Breathe out gently (away from inhaler)
  11. If more than one dose is needed, repeat all steps starting from step 3
  12. Replace cap

References:

https://www.webmd.com/asthma/guide/what-is-asthma

https://www.emedicinehealth.com/asthma/article_em.htm


Information provided by Mrs. Tian Palmer-McKoy

College Nurse, EMCVPA