ASTHMA: TRIGGERS AND MANAGEMENT


Common symptoms:

  1. Coughing (especially at night or early morning)
  2. Wheezing (a whistling sound when breathing)
  3. Chest tightness
  4. Shortness of breath or rapid breathing

Common asthma triggers:

  1. Allergens (dust, pollen, pets, mold)
  2. Smoke, strong smells, or pollution (paint, perfume, cooking fumes)
  3. Colds or infections (sinusitis, pneumonia, bronchitis)
  4. Exercise (especially in cold or dry air)
  5. Weather changes
  6. Certain foods or acid reflux

Managing asthma:

  1. Avoid triggers
  2. Give medications as prescribed to control breathing and swelling
  3. Watch for early warning signs (cough, wheeze, fatigue)
  4. Keep regular doctor visits and follow your asthma action plan

Treatment:

  1. Daily control medicines to prevent symptoms
  2. Rescue inhalers for quick relief during attacks
  3. Other medications if needed

When to seek emergency care:

  1. Struggling to breathe or cannot speak in full sentences
  2. Lips or face look blue or gray
  3. If rescue inhaler is not working

Breathing is getting worse