If you have asthma, the condition can make you fearful of staying active. Severe asthma can even be life-threatening. Your allergist can help you live well with asthma, so you can enjoy your life.
What You Need to Know about Asthma
Asthma can cause some unpleasant signs and symptoms, which can vary in severity. Some of the most common signs and symptoms of asthma include:
- Frequent wheezing and coughing
- Difficulty breathing, especially when you are active
- Tightness, discomfort, and pressure in your chest
- Recurrent episodes of bronchitis
Asthma is often triggered by exposure to a substance you are allergic to, known as an allergen. Common allergens include:
- Grasses and trees
- Plant and flower pollen
- Pet dander and fur
- Mold and dust mites
- Certain foods including peanuts, shellfish, and dairy
If you know what substances you are allergic to, you can try to avoid them. That’s where allergy testing comes in. Your allergist will identify what you are allergic to, which can help prevent an asthma attack. To help prevent an allergic response which can cause an asthma attack, your allergist may recommend:
- Allergy shots
- Sublingual immunotherapy drops
Your allergist will also test your lung function with spirometry and other tests. These tests can help determine the severity of your asthma. To help manage asthma, your allergist may prescribe:
- Short term rescue inhalers for an asthma attack
- Long term asthma medications to manage asthma
You can also take a few simple steps to modify your environment and lessen the risk of an asthma attack. To live well with asthma, you should:
- Use hypoallergenic sheets and linens
- Wash your linens regularly
- Keep any pets off of the furniture, and out of your bedroom
- Place a HEPA filter in your bedroom
- Vaccuum frequently, or consider replacing carpets with hardwood floors
Your Allergist Can Help
Having asthma doesn’t mean you can’t live a full, active life. To learn more about living well with asthma, talk with an expert. Call your allergist today.