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Asthma Management

Is Your Asthma Under Control?

If your asthma is under control…

  • You should be using your reliever medication 3 or less times a week.
  • You should not be waking up from sleep because of your asthma.
  • You should not have to modify (restrict) any of your activities because of asthma.
  • You should not need urgent treatment (emergency department or walk-in clinic) for your asthma.

 


Warning Signs that Your Asthma is Out of Control

There are many signs that you may not know of, which indicate that your asthma is not well controlled. Often, early intervention can help control your asthma rather than letting it get worse. Here is a 30-second test that you can take that will tell you whether or not your asthma is out of control.

   1. Do you cough, wheeze, or have a tight chest because of your asthma?

   2. Do coughing, wheezing, or chest tightness wake you at night?

   3. Do you stop exercising because of your asthma?

   4. Do you ever miss school or work because of your asthma?

   5. Do you use your blue inhaler more than 3 times a week? (except one dose/day for exercise)

If you answered "YES" to one or more questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist how you can feel better.

 

Some Tips On How to Control Your Asthma

The key to controlling asthma is making sure that you minimize environmental factors that contribute to asthma. Here are some tips on how to control your asthma and eliminate those asthma triggers.

  • Avoid respiratory irritants such as tobacco smoke
  • Try to reduce exposure to allergens, especially indoor allergens
  • Maintain a relative humidity below 50% within your house
  • Encase mattress and pillows in mite and mite allergen impermeable cases
  • Wash in hot (55 degrees Celsius) water
  • Remove carpeting where possible
  • Remove anything that collects dust
  • If a pet triggers asthma, remove the pet from the home or at least the bedroom, if you can
  • Use a HEPA air cleaner in the house
  • Vacuum regularly
  • Try to stay away from upholstered furniture
  • To avoid pollen, keep doors and windows closed
  • Use an air conditioner that filters air
  • Avoid sweeping
  • Use damp cloth to dust
  • Clean damp areas such as the basement and bathroom
  • Avoid strong smelling chemicals
  • Exercise indoors in cold weather