How to Lower Your Risk for Asthma Complications

Living with asthma doesn't have to mean constant worry about your next flare-up. Asthma is a chronic lung disease, but being proactive can significantly reduce your risk of complications and help you breathe easier.

Our team at Northwest Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine in Algonquin, Illinois, specializes in helping patients manage their asthma effectively.

Here are key strategies to keep your asthma under control and minimize complications:

Take your medications as prescribed

Consistency is crucial in asthma management. Skipping doses or improperly using your inhaler can leave you vulnerable to asthma attacks. Always follow your doctor's instructions and keep rescue inhalers readily available.

Know and avoid your triggers

Everyone's asthma triggers are different. Common triggers include pollen, pet dander, dust mites, smoke, and certain weather conditions. Identifying and avoiding your triggers can dramatically reduce the likelihood of an asthma attack.

Keep your environment clean

A clean home is your first defense against asthma complications. Regular dusting, vacuuming with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, and washing bedding in hot water can reduce exposure to common triggers that worsen asthma symptoms.

Monitor your symptoms daily

Pay attention to changes in your breathing patterns, increased coughing, or wheezing. Using a peak flow meter at home can help you track your lung function and catch potential problems before they become serious. 

This hand-held device measures how fast you can exhale, giving you a quick and easy way to monitor airway narrowing or obstruction. 

Regular use can help you recognize early signs of worsening asthma or other respiratory conditions, allowing for timely adjustments to your treatment plan.

Stay current with vaccinations

Respiratory infections can trigger severe asthma attacks. Getting your annual flu shot and staying current with other recommended vaccinations helps protect your lungs from infection-related complications.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle

Regular exercise (with proper precautions), maintaining a healthy weight, and eating a balanced diet can improve overall lung function and reduce asthma severity. Remember to always warm up before exercise and have your rescue inhaler nearby.

Create an asthma action plan

Work with our team to develop a written plan that outlines what to do when symptoms worsen. It should include medication adjustments, emergency contact information, and clear steps for managing different levels of symptoms.

Don't wait for breathing problems to worsen. At Northwest Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine, we provide comprehensive asthma care, including:

• Xolair® for allergy-induced asthma
• Injectable steroids
• Trigger identification
• Inhalers and nebulizers
• Emergency action planning
• Regular monitoring and adjustments

Call our office at 815-584-0976 or schedule a consultation online to learn more about preventing asthma complications and improving your lung health.