What you need to know to help control your asthma.

What is asthma?

No one’s sure what causes asthma.  And so far there’s no cure.  But we know that asthma is a chronic inflammatory lung disorder that can be controlled.  With asthma, substances or conditions called triggers cause air passages in the lungs to become inflamed and swollen.  The air passages then become overly sensitive.

Any further irritation of these ultra sensitive air passages can lead to an asthma attack.  This is when you experience symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness.  Not all people with asthma wheeze.  For some, coughing may be the only symptom.  Asthma symptoms often occur at night and/or after exercise.

What are triggers?

            Triggers are the substance that can cause asthma attacks and can cause inflammation in the lungs.  One key thing you can do to help control your asthma is to find out what specific triggers cause your asthma attacks.  Avoiding your triggers can be as important as taking your medicine.

Triggers fall under three general categories:

·        Allergens.  This largest group of triggers can be either inhaled (airborne allergens) or ingested (food).  Pollen from trees, grasses or weeds, animal dander, mold, mildew and dust are common airborne triggers.  Food allergens are far less frequent triggers.

·        Irritants.  This group of common triggers includes cigarette smoke, perfumes, household cleaning products, aerosol sprays, wood smoke, industrial chemicals, latex, and air pollution.  People with asthma can react to even a small amount of these substances.

·        Physical Conditions.  Viral infections, colds, or flu can cause asthma flare-ups, as can certain drugs, such as aspirin.  Exercise, weather changes, very cold air, and even emotional stress are other triggers in this category.

Once you and your doctor have identified the triggers that specifically affect you, there’s a lot you can do to help avoid asthma attacks simply by planning ahead. 

·        Dust Mites.  These creatures, which are too small to see, live in bedding, carpeting, or furniture.  So if you’re experiencing symptoms when you vacuum or when you’re in bed, dust mites are probably your triggers.  Cover your mattress and pillows with vinyl dust-proof cases and, if possible, consider removing wall-to-wall carpeting.

·        Smoke.  Smoke from cigarettes and cigars can be as big a problem for someone with asthma.  Don’t be afraid to ask people not to smoke.  Most will understand.  And thankfully, many public places have now been declared smoke-free environments. 

·        Mold.  If you react to mold, clean shower stalls and sinks regularly, and check for dampness in your basement.

·        Pollen.  If pollen is the problem, don’t hang clothes or bedding outside to dry.  And avoid going out during peak pollen periods.

·        Animals.  If a pet is too close for comfort, try keeping him outside the house or at least somewhere away from where you sleep.

·        Cold Weather.  If cold winter air triggers your attacks, make sure to wear a heavy scarf or a mask over your mouth.

·        Food Additives.  You may react to food additives, so be sure to check food labels for “sulfites” and “metabisulfites.”  If so, avoid foods like beer or dried fruit that contain these ingredients.

·        Emotions.  Although emotions are not the direct cause of asthma, crying, and laughing can change the way you breathe, which can trigger an attack.

·        Exercise.  Many people with asthma have symptoms during or after exercise.  But, if done right, exercise can actually help make you healthier.  You can work with your doctor to find the right exercise program for you.

·        Medications.  Be sure to ask your healthcare provider for a list of medications you should avoid.

By avoiding your triggers, you can help keep your asthma under control.  But sometimes triggers are unavoidable—when the weather turns cold or you come in contact with a neighbor’s cat or dog, for instance.  On those occasions, your lungs can produce increased amounts of many substances, which in turn can lead to an asthma attack.

How can you tell when you should see a specialist for asthma or allergy treatment?

            Most people consult their primary care physician or pediatrician when asthma or allergy symptoms first appear.  Once an asthma or allergy diagnosis is made or suspected by the primary care doctor, you may be referred to a Board Certified Allergist for testing and/or treatment.  However, many primary care physicians and pediatricians do treat asthma and allergies effectively.  The bottom-line?  If your symptoms continue in spite of the treatment prescribed by your doctor, you need to either review – and change – your care plan with your current provider or seek treatment elsewhere, preferably with a Board Certified Allergist.

Are you prepared to see your doctor?

            Going to your doctor is the most important time for you to work together as a team.  Open communication between you and your doctor will help you take control of your asthma.  So be prepared when you go for your next visit.  Have a list of questions ready, plus a list of your triggers.

            You may want to talk about:

·        Your symptoms and how you feel.

·        Breathing problems you may be having in the middle of the night or with exercise.

·        Workdays missed because of your symptoms.

·        How often you’re using your rescue medication.

·        How your asthma affects goals you have and the activities needed to accomplish them.