Winter is coming and with it arrive also sinus infections, cold, and viral respiratory infections.
Because respiratory infections are one of the common trigger of asthma like allergies, outdoor and indoor air pollution, and exercise, this is the right time to get ready to prevent or control asthma flare-up.
Following the Mayo Clinic 3 steps to better control asthma, you can manage your symptoms and prevent complications:
- TRACK YOUR SYMPTOMS: it is really important that you record your peak flow and your symptoms as increased shortness of breath, disturbed sleep caused by coughing or shortness of breath, chest tightness or pain, inhaler use and how many puffs you take, increased asthma symptoms during exercise, anything that seems to trigger asthma. This record will help you and your doctor to define your actual asthma condition.
- CHECK YOUR LUNG FUNCTION: Peak flow and Spirometery are the two primary lung function test that help determine your level of asthma control.
- ADJUST YOUR TREATMENT: by following your asthma treatment plan and tracking your symptoms, you and your doctor can find if you need to adjust your medications to control or prevent asthma flare-ups. Use Quick-relief inhalers and/or long-term control medications is part of the treatment plan. It is important check periodically the efficacy of the treatment plan for adjust the dose or type of medication. Because there are a lot of different kind of asthma triggers, it could be necessary periodical “stepped-up” or “stepped-down” medication based on specific patient’s situations.
For patients with asthma, the most important thing to follow is to work closely with their doctor for tailoring the treatment plan exactly on their specific situation.
If you suffer of a chronic pulmonary disease as asthma or COPD, you can be enrolled at the Hartford Hospital educational program "Pulmonary Rehabilitation Classes". This is a 10-weeks individualized program for patients need to control and alleviate symptoms of respiratory impairment. If you think you need it, you can call 860-545-3637 for more information and admission into the program.
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