Strategies to Ease Asthma Symptoms

Asthma is chronic inflammatory condition that makes the airways of the lungs (bronchial tubes) highly sensitive to certain substances, many of which are inherently harmless. When an asthma sufferer is exposed to these irritants, the airways can tighten, become inflamed, and/or fill with mucus. This can create uncomfortable symptoms like coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness, pain, or pressure.

By making certain lifestyle changes, it is often possible to reduce the severity of asthma symptoms. For instance, many physicians recommend the following self-care tips to help asthma patients cope with their symptoms:

• Keep your surroundings as dust-free as possible. When cleaning at home, keep your nose and mouth covered, and use a vacuum cleaner instead of sweeping with a broom.
• Change your air conditioner filter(s) regularly.
• Do not allow pets to sleep in your bedroom.
• Avoid all forms of smoke. You are probably aware that you shouldn’t smoke or allow others to smoke in your home. However, smoke from a fireplace, woodstove, and even cooking can also trigger asthma symptoms.
• Do not use scented products like perfumes, body lotions, cleaning sprays, and air fresheners.
• Drink plenty of water, which can help reduce the formation of thick mucus.
• Restrict your consumption of fried foods, foods that are difficult to digest, fruits with high sugar content, and common allergens like fish and yeast.
• Keep an inhaler with you at all times so that it will be available for use in an emergency.
• Incorporate regular physical activity into your lifestyle.

If you have questions or would like to consult with a physician about asthma treatment, please feel free to contact or visit South Tampa Immediate Care. At our walk-in clinic, you will be seen by a qualified doctor who has years of experience in identifying and treating many common illnesses and injuries, and no appointment is ever needed.