The hot days of summer are fading and the mornings are getting cooler. Fall brings us beautiful colors but not so nice allergies such as ragweed. And, for those who have allergy-associated asthma, ragweed can bring on asthma symptoms.
So, what is asthma?
• Asthma is a condition that affects the lung’s bronchial tubes. These are the main breathing tubes of the lung. They can become tight, narrow and irritated. Many things, including allergies, can trigger asthma.
What does an asthma flare-up feel like?
• It feels like you can’t fully get air in and out of your lungs. At first, you may just feel tired and have more trouble walking up hills. But, later, as it progresses, you may have trouble with more active exercise and even while you are resting. Trouble breathing can be scary so let’s prepare to prevent the problem.
• Often, coughing is the first sign of an asthma flare-up.
What are common Fall season triggers for asthma flare-ups?
• Pollen
- Tree pollen: Ragweed is high right now. So, close your windows at home and in the car, and use your air conditioner or heat.
• Colds/Infection
- School has started so remember to wash your hands often and keep your hands away from your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Get your Flu shot at your Asthma Medicine Visit or Check-Up: FLU SHOTS ARE ALREADY IN OUR OFFICE, SO COME EARLY TO GET YOUR VACCINE
- Eat a well-balanced diet and take a multivitamin
• Weather change
- For some people, a 20 degree or more change in temperature can trigger wheezing or cough.
- Dress warmly as the weather cool and wear layers of clothes. Remember Grandma said this is pneumonia weather.
• Exercise
- Remember, Exercise keeps you healthy! But, if you are having breathing problems during exercise, see your doctor.
• Indoor Triggers
- Mold
- Room “fresheners” or deodorizers (these are actually pollutants)
- Perfumes
- Smoke: No one should smoke. If you do smoke, do so outside of the house and car. Plan to quit – A plan is the first step!
- Pets: certain pets are more likely to be associated with allergies. (If “Fluffy” is already your pet, just keep him/her out of the bedroom).
• PREVENTION IS KEY TO CONTROLLING YOUR ASTHMA
- Know your triggers and try to avoid them
- Try to prevent yourself from getting colds and Flu. GET YOUR FLU SHOT!
- Exercise smart with your rescue inhaler on hand at all times
- Know the names of your asthma medications and their roles in your asthma care. Check the expiration date of your medicines.
- Go to your pediatrician at least once a year for an asthma medicine visit. During that visit, your doctor will:
- Review your Asthma Treatment Plan
- Review your medications and decide if you can “step-down” or change treatment
- Do a Pulmonary Function Test (to check your lung function)
- Help you better understand your asthma
Dr. Crawford
