What Does Good Asthma Control Feel Like?

We all know what poor asthma control feels like. But what about good asthma control? What does THAT feel like?

The work required for good asthma control

Good asthma control feels like work. Here's a look at some of the things I think it requires for me to get good asthma control:

• Taking controller medicines every day to obtain and maintain good asthma control
• Remembering to get my medicines refilled when I need them
• Regularly seeing my doctor to monitor my asthma and make changes to my medicinal regimen as needed
• Contacting my doctor when I’m having asthma issues
• Having an asthma action plan so I have an idea of what actions to take when I am experiencing asthma
• Occasionally reminding people not to smoke around me
• Pausing to make sure I am prepared before leaving my house
• Taking time for relaxation and stress reduction, as stress can sometimes impact my asthma symptoms
• Being proactive in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, which can positively impact overall health
• Staying informed about asthma
• Being patient, as it sometimes takes time to obtain good asthma control

The feeling of good asthma control

Good asthma control includes the feeling of joy. Here are some of the benefits I enjoy from controlling my asthma:

• Rarely missing work or school days due to asthma
• Watching outdoor baseball games, knowing the dust won’t trigger my asthma
• Walking down the detergent aisle of stores without it triggering my asthma
• Being able to go hunting and spend the night without issues
• Swimming in a chlorinated pool without issues
• Going on a run without my chest getting tight
• Going for a walk even when it is hot and humid
• Going for a run even when it is freezing cold outdoors
• Sleeping soundly and breathing easily all night long
• Attending social gatherings and parties, fully participating without asthma getting in the way
• Enjoying the company of friends and loved ones without constant concern about asthma triggers
• Sorting through baseball cards and doing puzzles without my chest getting tight

It could also be...

• Dreaming big and planning exciting trips with the assurance that your asthma won't disrupt your adventures
• Staying physically active and getting in shape
• Breathing in the fresh air and taking in the beauty of nature, knowing that your asthma is well-managed
• Feeling laughter, joy, and excitement without it making you wheeze
• Not thinking about asthma at all
• Feeling so good that you forget you have asthma
• Hiking in the woods and enjoying it
• Enjoying outdoor picnics and barbecues without asthma symptoms interrupting the fun
• Taking long road trips without worrying about asthma flare-ups during the journey
• Exploring new places and trying adventurous activities like zip-lining or rock climbing with confidence
• Attending outdoor concerts and music festivals without concerns about asthma triggers
• Feeling energized and ready for the day, knowing that your asthma won't hold you back
• Participating in team sports and friendly competitions without asthma-related limitations
• Dancing freely and joyfully without asthma symptoms hindering your moves
• Joining friends for bonfires and stargazing, relishing the cozy atmosphere without smoke affecting your breathing
• Going on bike rides and feeling the wind against your face as you explore scenic routes
• Traveling by airplane without worrying about asthma symptoms being triggered by air quality changes