5 Tips For Preventing Asthma Attacks

Nearly 23 million people in the U.S. have asthma. While there is currently no cure for asthma, there are treatment plans that can reduce symptoms and prevent a life-threatening asthma attack. If you’re living with asthma, these simple steps can help you keep your condition under control, so you can avoid an episode and enjoy a more comfortable life.

1. Know your triggers

When you know your triggers, you can take steps to avoid them. Common triggers include smoke, dust, pets, mites, and mold. To learn what environmental and emotional factors affect your asthma, keep an asthma diary. Log where you go, how you feel, what you’ve been exposed to, and how everything impacts your asthma. This knowledge will help you take future precautions to minimize your symptoms.‍

2. Get vaccinated

Stay up to date on your vaccinations (like your annual flu shot), so you’re less likely to catch a respiratory infection that worsens your asthma. 

‍3. Allergy-proof your home

Reference your asthma diary to see what triggers worsen your asthma and make a plan to avoid them in your home. A few universal allergy-proofing tips include regular vacuuming, washing your bedspread weekly, using an air purifier, sealing cracks and leaks, maintaining a low humidity level between 30% and 50%, and keeping food areas clean so you don’t attract mites.

4. Take your medicine early 

Your medicine is your best tool for avoiding a serious attack. Don’t wait for symptoms to intensify. Take your inhaler at the earliest possible sign of a potential asthma episode. Some early symptoms include coughing, chest tightening, or feeling tired. Your doctor may also recommend using a peak flow meter to monitor your airways.‍

5. Make a plan with your doctor

Your doctor is on your team! Your primary care provider can help you understand your asthma and create a personalized care plan — with the right inhaled medications, an attainable exercise plan, dietary recommendations and more.

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