Asthma is one of the most common long-term respiratory conditions, affecting people of all ages. While asthma can’t be cured, it can usually be well controlled with the right medications, good inhaler technique and a bit of planning. Here are 7 tips to help you breathe easier and stay well.
1. Understand Your Asthma and Your Triggers
Asthma occurs when the airways in the lungs become inflamed and narrow, making it harder to breathe. Symptoms include wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and shortness of breath. These symptoms often worsen when the airways react to triggers.
Common triggers include respiratory infections, exercise, cold air, pollen, dust mites, smoke and pollution. Try to identify your personal triggers and avoid or reduce exposure to them.
2. Know the Difference Between Relievers and Preventers
Many people with asthma use reliever and preventer inhalers. Relievers offer quick relief of symptoms by relaxing the muscles around the airways. They are used when symptoms occur and can rapidly improve breathing.
Many preventers contain anti-inflammatory medication that reduce swelling in the airways. These inhalers are designed to be used regularly, even when you feel well. If you need your reliever more than 3 times/week, your asthma may not be well controlled and your preventer may need adjusting.
3. Perfect Your Inhaler Technique
Studies suggest that many patients do not get the full benefit of their medication simply because the inhaler technique isn’t quite right. Using the correct technique ensures that the medication reaches the lungs rather than remaining in the mouth or throat. Ask your pharmacist to show you the correct technique for your inhalers.
4. Always Carry Your Reliever Inhaler
Asthma symptoms can sometimes appear unexpectedly, particularly during exercise, illness or exposure to triggers. Keep an inhaler in your bag, car or school/work so help is close by if symptoms occur. Routinely check the expiry date and that it still contains medication.
5. Have an Asthma Action Plan
An asthma action plan is a simple written guide developed with your doctor. It outlines your regular medications, how to recognise worsening symptoms and what steps to take if your asthma flares up. It helps you respond quickly if symptoms worsen.
6. Monitor Your Symptoms
Good asthma control means minimal symptoms, good sleep and the ability to exercise without difficulty. If you notice increased coughing at night, wheezing during activity or needing your reliever inhaler more frequently, it may signal that your asthma control is slipping.
7. Look After Your Lungs During Cold and Flu Season
Respiratory infections are one of the most common causes of asthma flare-ups. Annual influenza vaccination is strongly recommended, as the flu can significantly worsen symptoms. Good hygiene practices such as regular hand washing and avoiding close contact with people who are ill can also help reduce the risk of infection.
Pharmacists are the most accessible healthcare professionals for asthma advice. Whether it is checking inhaler technique, discussing medication options, reviewing symptom control or helping you understand your asthma action plan, we are here to support you.