Asthma is a chronic disease that affects airways in the lungs. During an asthma attack, the patient may experience difficulty in breathing, pain or tightness in the chest, coughing and wheezing. These attacks seem to paralyze the patient by fear as he is unable to ask for help.
Fortunately, as long as asthma is well managed, sufferers can still enjoy a normal life and carry out day-to-day activities without such limitations.
Below are some facts about asthma that you need to know and some tips for you to be able to reduce asthma triggers in your home environment.
You Can Develop Asthma Later On In Your Life
Asthma symptoms do not only appear during childhood. Many people may develop asthma at any time in their lives.
Dr. Chiang Wen Chin, president of Asthma and Allergy Association of Singapore says that asthma may develop later in your adulthood and this is known as adult-onset asthma.
You Can Still Do Physical Activities If You Have Asthma
You can still engage in physical activities even if you have asthma. All you need to do is to have proper training and the right dose of medication. Many people can do any sport they want despite the fact that they have the condition. However, if you are suffering from acute asthma exacerbation, which causes symptoms to worsen, then you may want to consult your doctor first.
You Can’t Outgrow Asthma
If you think that asthma will simply go away as you age then you are wrong. Asthma symptoms may improve as you get older but sadly, it will stay throughout your life. You just need to ensure that you have a proper management plan in order for you to relieve asthma symptom and reduce attacks.
Asthma Is Not Psychological
You need to understand that asthma is a physical condition but can be triggered by psychological factors, such as emotional stress and the feeling of strong emotions – anger, fear, excitement – that can cause chest discomfort or shortness in breathing.
Allergies And Asthma Are Closely Related
Allergens are substances that cause allergies and triggers asthma. Inhaling something you are allergic to can lead to asthma symptoms. It would be better if you avoid all known allergens to prevent episodes of an asthma attack.
Some of the common allergens that cause allergic asthma include:
- Dust Mites
- Cockroach
- Pollen
- Molds
- Pet Dander
- Rodents
In your home, there are many factors that may trigger asthma attacks aside from the allergens listed above. You can blame it in cigarette smoke, outdoor air pollution, breathing in mold or smoke from burning wood or grass.
There are some quick and easy ways for you to be able to optimize your living condition while controlling your asthma attacks and allergies. Here is the list:
- Regularly clean your air-conditioner
- Use an air purifier.
- Store your clothes and books in a closed cupboard.
- Avoid having soft, furry toys on the bed.
- Having thick curtains in the bedroom is not recommended.
- Use anti-dust mite covers on your pillows and mattresses.
- Instead of using feather dusters, opt for a damp cloth when cleaning surfaces.
- Wash bed sheets and pillowcases in hot water (>60°C) once a week.
Additionally, here’s what you should do if you are allergic to pet dander:
- If you have a pet at home, keep it out of the bedroom
- Wash your clothes after visiting friends with pets.
- Wash your hands immediately after petting any pet.
- Replace carpeting with hardwood, tile or linoleum, all of which will not trap pet dander.
