Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects the airways and lungs. The most common asthma symptoms are wheezing, shortness of breath, and cough. It can also cause chest tightness and pain when inhaling deeply or coughing. If it doesn’t get proper treatment, it can be fatal. In Covington, GA, you’ll find dependable facilities willing to help you fight asthma. Aim at picking the finest Covington, GA primary care center.
What is Asthma?
Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that inflames and narrows the airways, making it difficult to breathe. It is caused by many things such as allergies, genetics, environment, and lifestyle.
The most common asthma symptoms are wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, chest tightness, and pain when inhaling deeply or coughing. These symptoms can vary in severity from person to person. Asthma can also cause other problems such as sinus infections, ear infections, and headaches.
Asthma can be fatal if it is not treated correctly. However, with proper treatment and management, asthma does not control your life.
Causes of Asthma
Asthma causes include:
- Allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and pet dander
- Illnesses such as colds and the flu
- Tobacco smoke
- Weather conditions such as high humidity and changes in temperature
How to Manage Asthma?
There are many things you can do to help manage your asthma. The following are some tips on how to maintain healthy breathing habits and how to treat an asthma attack:
- Maintain a Healthy Diet: A healthy diet is important for managing asthma. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid foods that trigger your asthma, such as dairy, eggs, nuts, and shellfish.
- Avoid Smoking and Pollution: Cigarette smoke and air pollution can trigger asthma attacks. Try to avoid exposure to these things as much as possible.
- Get Regular Exercise: Exercise is good for your overall health and can help improve your asthma symptoms. Try to get at least 30 minutes of exercise a day.
- Use Proper Technique When Coughing and Sneezing: Avoid rapid, forceful coughing or sneezing. Instead, try to cough or sneeze into a tissue or the crook of your arm. It will help keep you from exacerbating your symptoms.
- Use a Nebulizer: A nebulizer is a device that converts medication into an inhalable mist. If you have severe asthma symptoms, your doctor may prescribe a nebulizer treatment.
Treatment Options for Asthma
If you have asthma, your doctor will work with you to develop a treatment plan that works best for you. There are many different medications and treatments available for asthma. The following are some of the most common:
Inhaled Corticosteroids: Inhaled corticosteroids are the most commonly prescribed medication for asthma. They help reduce inflammation in the airways and help to prevent asthma attacks.
Long-Acting Bronchodilators: Long-acting bronchodilators are medications that help open the airways and make breathing easier. They are often used to treat chronic asthma symptoms.
Asthma is a chronic respiratory disorder that narrows the airways, causing strained breathing. It can be fatal if not properly treated. A primary care doctor can assist you in managing asthma accordingly.