Steps to Take to Avoid Asthma  

Every year in America over 5,000 people die from asthma. Asthma has been afflicting people to the current tune of over 17 million Americans. Asthma attacks can and do occur at random times so it is wise to be prepared with the appropriate medication.

For most people suffering with asthma they can still lead busy and productive lives. How? By seeing a physician or health care provider that will work with them in creating and implementing an asthma control plan. The key here is being proactive rather than reacting when its to late. Waiting for an asthma attack to occur before thinking about what to do is many times untimely.

When you have an asthma attack your lungs begin to get tighter. That is they close down the amount of air you can inspire. This often leads to coughing, wheezing and chest tightness. Almost as if an elephant were sitting on your chest and of course you could not breathe.

There are some measures that could be used to avoid or control the attack should it happen to you. Avoiding second hand smoke and of course that means not smoking at all as well.

Other allergens to avoid triggering an asthma exacerbation are:
1. Pet Dander
2. Dust Mites as much as possible
3. Cockroaches
4. Cold air or extreme swings in the barometric pressure
5. Highly humid and moist areas eg. Saunas and pool rooms

Because all of the above should be a part of your asthma action plan it is more realistic to contemplate what one should do if an asthma attack occurs.

If you have a young child, the asthma doctor may recommend that you use an asthma nebulizer. This machine changes liquid asthma medication into a mist so that it can be more easily inhaled in the lungs. If your child is very young the doctors recommend using a small mask that covers the child's nose and mouth. This seals the medication in so that the child inhales either through the nose or via the mouth. Both routes optimally distribute the medication to the child's lungs.

To get a home asthma nebulizer you will need a prescription from your doctor. In other countries you may be able to purchase a machine without a prescription from a doctor. The cost is usually between $200 to $300 and most health insurance policies will cover the cost, so make sure you check with your carrier. Once you have your asthma nebulizer it is important that you learn to use it correctly.

For training please consult with the nurse or the salesperson that provides the machine for you. To begin with there are some supplies that you need with your asthma nebulizer. You will need an air compressor, nebulizer cup, a proper fitting mask or mouthpiece, compressor tubing, and the correct medication dosages which only your doctor can prescribe.

Currently the types of medication used in nebulizers have a maximal duration of action of four to six hours tops. So, you'll have to have a situation set up whereby you can dose the medication for your child. If they are school age it has been a concern recently that children do not have access to their medication since most schools keep medication on school grounds under lock and key. This is unfortunate since asthma is a highly variable and unpredictable disorder. Children or adults for that matter, can feel normal and fine one hour and the next hour they need emergency medical treatment.

Since asthma is so volatile, please keep your asthma action plan up to date. Ensure that you or your child knows exactly where the rescue medication is located. When you are having an asthma attack it is very difficult or impossible to give clear directions for anything.

Why not get our Guide to The truth about Asthma