3 Actionable Tips for Better Asthma Control

"Asthma control." These are 2 words that, for so many people, seem unattainable. It is something we want so badly as asthmatics, but we often struggle to get it. However, control is something we always need to strive for.

The basic definition of asthma control is not needing your rescue inhaler for symptom relief more than 2 times per week. Please note that if your doctor told you to use your rescue inhaler before exercise or in cold air, this does not count toward the "twice a week" rule.

Asthma is an episodic disease. This means that your asthma can be under control for a while, and then you can have flare-ups. While there is no cure for asthma, the disease can be controlled.

For some people, obtaining proper asthma control can be incredibly difficult and frustrating. Fortunately, prioritizing everyday symptom management can make a massive difference in reducing flare-ups. Here are three tips to help you take control of your asthma:

Review your action plan to maintain asthma control

I am a huge proponent of asthma action plans. In a nutshell, an asthma action plan is a written plan created with your doctor's help. It lists all your asthma medications, when to take them, and your peak flow ranges (if you track them).

Your asthma action plan should include specific instructions on which medications to increase or add when your asthma flares. It also outlines when to call your doctor or seek emergency medical treatment.

Just as asthma changes over time, so will your action plan. Whenever your medications change or you experience new or different symptoms, you will need to update your action plan. Following your asthma action plan closely will help keep your asthma under better control.

Work with your doctor to find the right treatment plan

Finding the right medicine to keep asthma under control can be a daunting task. Sometimes, it can take a combination of inhalers to keep asthma symptoms at bay.

One common misconception I hear a lot is the belief that a person can become addicted to their asthma medications, and/or that the inhalers just stop working after a period of time. These beliefs are not true.

Asthma severity can change over time, making it seem as though your controller inhaler has stopped working. In reality, you may simply need a stronger medication or a different combination to get things back on track.

Keep in mind that when your doctor starts you on a new medication, it can take a couple of weeks for it to take effect and for you to notice a difference in your breathing. Be sure to keep in touch with your doctor about your progress in managing your symptoms.

Tackle your triggers to reduce flare-ups

Identifying asthma triggers is an essential part of the asthma control puzzle. Some common asthma triggers are things like smoke, dust, weather changes, sickness, allergens, harsh cleaning products, and strong emotions, just to name a few.

If you are new to your asthma diagnosis, figuring out your triggers and how to manage and avoid them will go a long way toward reducing flare-ups and keeping your symptoms from worsening.

Even if your asthma is wildly out of control right now, do not give up on it! It can take time to find the right combination of medications, manage triggers, and follow and update your action plan. Keep fighting for easier breathing! Your lungs will thank you!