Asthma Treatment: Managing Symptoms, Preventing Attacks, and Knowing When to Seek Help
Asthma, which is when airways become inflamed or swollen, is a chronic condition that affects millions of people in the UK. Although some people only exhibit mild symptoms that can be lived with, asthma is not to be taken lightly. It inflames and narrows the airways, making it difficult to breathe. Symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing can vary from mild to life-threatening.
Although asthma has no cure, effective treatments and lifestyle management can significantly improve quality of life. In this blog, let’s talk about how asthma is controlled, what are signs of an emergency, and collaborating with your healthcare provider to manage your symptoms.
What Triggers Asthma?
Triggers for asthma differ from person to person, but commonly they include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, cold air, smoke, pollution, and exercise. Colds and flu or other respiratory infections can also worsen symptoms. Stress or emotions can also trigger an asthma episode in some people.
Recognising your own personal triggers is an important part of an individual asthma action plan. Your GP or asthma nurse will be able to discuss your triggers and look at ways you could reduce your exposure to them, which can help you have better symptom control and reduce your risk of an asthma attack.
Asthma Treatment: Daily Management and Relief
Asthma treatment usually includes long-term control medications and rescue inhalers. Initial treatment options are:
- Preventer inhalers (e.g., steroid inhalers): Taken each day to reduce inflammation in the airways and prevent symptoms.
- Reliever inhalers (e.g., salbutamol): Used when you have an asthma attack or if symptoms suddenly get worse.
- Combination inhalers: Contain both preventer and long-acting reliever medicine, and are used for individuals in whom the symptoms are more clear-cut.
Depending on the severity of your condition, you may also be given tablets or injections, including leukotriene receptor antagonists or biologics.
Regular GP check-ups are essential in working out which medication is right for you, checking your inhaler technique, and updating your asthma action plan.
Recognising an Asthma Emergency
The majority of asthma symptoms can be effectively controlled, although severe asthma attacks need prompt action. Key warning signs include:
- Sudden worsening of shortness of breath or wheezing.
- No resolution with use of a reliever inhaler.
- Trouble breathing while doing simple activities (e.g., when you walk or talk).
- Lips or face turning blue, indicating a lack of oxygen.
If any of these signs or symptoms are detected, call 999 and do not wait. Severe attacks may rapidly dwindle the bit of breathing after many times of life peril.
Emergency Action Plan: Be Prepared
All people with asthma should have a written asthma action plan. That personalised guide walks you through exactly what to do when symptoms get worse and helps you recognise when it’s time to escalate medication or seek emergency treatment.
Your next step here are the steps to take in the next:
- Daily medication routine.
- Triggers to avoid.
- What to do during a flare-up.
- When to call 999.
You should also review this plan at least annually or if your symptoms change. It is important for schools, workplaces, and carers to be informed of it for safety.
Lifestyle Tips to Support Asthma Control
Asthma control goes beyond medication. The following are some easy lifestyle tips but whose impact is profound:
- Stop smoking and do not breathe in second-hand smoke.
- Cover pillows and mattresses with allergy-proof covers.
- Check the air quality and stay indoors when it is a high pollution or pollen day.
- Keep a healthy weight and exercise within your abilities.
- Make sure you are up to date on your vaccinations (like the flu jab) to decrease the risk of respiratory infections.
Taking these measures in addition to using medications can help lower your chances of developing severe asthma.
Conclusion
Asthma is a controllable disease, but it takes dedication, education, and teamwork with your healthcare provider. From learning to recognise triggers and understand medication to knowing what represents an emergency — understanding your asthma is your best defence.
If you or someone you love has asthma, it’s important to follow closely with a specialist to create a treatment plan that fits you and your lifestyle. Don’t wait until it gets severe — you have to manage it preemptively.
For a consultation or to book an asthma review, please call our friendly staff.
To learn more, please visit the official NHS guide on Asthma.
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