Allergic asthma can be overwhelming. The allergens that give some people the typical watery eyes or sneezing can lead to an asthma attack. Allergic asthma is the most prevalent asthma type. While there is no cure, with a few tips and following Bastrop asthma & allergies medication and recommendations, you can keep the attacks at bay as much as possible. Among the practical tips to include in your allergy and asthma care regimen includes:
- Know your triggers
What causes the allergic asthma attack? The simplest way to keep the attacks away is knowing the allergens and avoiding them. This might not be straightforward. Nonetheless, with professional help, you can get tested and narrow down the triggers. Common triggers include smoke, cold air, flu/cold, exercise, sinusitis, fragrances, and other air pollutants.
You can make the process more productive by keeping a diary. For example, when an allergic asthma attack happens, note the environmental and emotional factors that could have led to it, which could be a combination of various things. Jotting down such details in your diary can show you a trend, making it easier to zone in on the allergens and devise a way to avoid them.
- Allergen proof lifestyle
Allergy proof your home, which could mean measures like investing in HEPA air filters. You can also take certain measures to allergy-proof your activities outdoors. For instance, avoid smoke-free hotels and other settings. When traveling, carry a set of beddings to avoid using the accommodation supplies since they might be loaded with dust mites. As you strive to improve the allergy proofing, staying indoors, mostly when the pollen count is high, is recommended. The proofing is about minimizing exposure to allergens, the most effective tip that keeps attacks at bay.
- Keep vaccinations up to date
An annual flu shot is critical as you strive to avoid asthma attacks. The shot protects you against the flu virus. If you catch the flu, asthma can worsen. In addition, you are likely to deal with the symptoms for days. The worst part is that you are at high risk of developing flu complications such as pneumonia, which can mean hospitalization. Besides the flu vaccine, pneumonia shot every 5-10 years for those over 19 years is recommended. Other vaccinations that help include Tdap and zoster vaccine.
- Consider immunotherapy allergy shots
Immunotherapy entails the introduction of allergens in small doses and following a regular schedule. The idea is to expose your immune system, helping it to get used and lower the reaction. Getting used to the allergens makes it easier to minimize the attacks, and when they happen, be less severe.
- Action plan
What do you do when an allergic asthma attack happens? Having an action plan makes it more manageable. This includes the dos, don’ts, appropriate medication to take, or when to call your doctor. Following the action plan can significantly reduce the stress and anxiety during an attack, allowing you to take the right steps.
Even with allergic asthma, leading an active, healthy, and fulfilling life is possible. Visit Pompeyo C Chavez, MD, today to learn more about asthma, allergies, and their treatment and management recommendations. Alternatively, there are lung health supplements out there that may significantly improve your condition.