Asthma can be a debilitating illness in many cases as dealing with it is not easy at times. If you or a loved one is suffering from asthma, it is important to be aware about the necessary short-term relief measures and long-term treatments. Although asthma cannot be completely cured, it can be controlled. Please feel free to consult us at the Allergy Suite in Novi, Michigan in case you notice any symptoms.
Around 25 million Americans suffer from asthma, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Everyone who has asthma experiences different manifestations of the disease. Thus, an asthma patient needs to work with their doctor to make a treatment plan tailored for them. It should be based on the patient’s specific asthma triggers and ways to manage them.
While the treatment depends on the patient’s condition and the doctor’s guidance, there are certain ways for prevention and management of asthma.
Prevention
There are various ways you can try to prevent asthmatic reactions. Your doctor can create a preventative treatment plan with details on when to take what action.
Steer clear of allergens : If you’re aware of any allergens – such as pet dander or dust – that provoke an asthma attack, minimize your exposure to them. Moreover, avoid any triggers such as scents, chemicals, smoke or other items that may have caused breathing problems in the past.
Preventive medication : You can also take medication regularly as prescribed by your doctor. This medication is different from the one you have to take in case of asthma emergencies.
Allergen immunotherapy : You can get allergy shots in consultation with your doctor to prepare your immune system. Regular shots can help the immune system to reduce its sensitivity to allergens or triggers that it gets exposed to.
Management
Effective management of asthma aims at three things:
- Reduce the risk of adverse effects of asthma including airway/lung damage and hospitalization
- Preventing long-term symptoms that affect daily life such as asthma attacks and shortness of breath during physical activity
- Minimize the side-effects from asthma medication
Proper asthma management involves several factors that the doctor and patient might have to work on. These include the following.
Firstly, a comprehensive treatment plan for asthma focuses on preventative measures. This requires the patient to regularly visit an allergist who monitors the symptoms, analyzes the pulmonary function, assesses exposure control for asthma triggers, regulates the medications and provides advice on managing the condition.
Secondly, the doctor identifies comorbidities and environmental triggers and suggests ways to tackle them. The doctor might require medical reports of the patient if the patient is suffering from other diseases that might have an impact on their asthma.
Lastly, an important factor of asthma treatment is self-monitoring at home. A patient must be aware of how they can track their symptoms and deal with them at home. One of the ways to do that is to measure their peak expiratory flow (PEF) by using a peak flow meter. Moreover, they must learn how to administer short-term relief treatments such as Anticholinergics and nebulizers. By working in collaboration with the doctor, a patient can control their asthma in the most efficient way.
Seeking Medical Help
Knowing the ins and outs of your condition and the symptoms can go a long way in successfully managing it. Proper information can help you in strengthening lung function and your ability to control your symptoms.
Nevertheless, if and when you experience any symptoms of asthma such as breathing problems, coughing or wheezing, you should consult a doctor specializing in asthma treatment.
When you’re diagnosed with asthma, make it a point to visit your doctor at least once a year. However, if you have recurring symptoms, you should see your doctor on a more frequent basis.
If you experience any of the following problems, you should see your doctor:
- Weakness in the body
- Inability to carry out day-to-day activities
- Persistent coughing or wheezing or cough
If you need to visit one of the best asthma treatment centers in Novi MI, contact us at The Allergy Suite. We provide comprehensive asthma treatments and help our patients to deal with their condition better.
