Living with asthma

Asthma is a condition that makes breathing difficult. The airway, which acts as a pipe to the lungs swells and starts to produce excess mucus. It is essential that you manage your condition to breathe well and prevent attacks that can be life-threatening. Diet, exercise, and medicines play an important role in controlling asthma.

An asthma attack happens when someone with asthma finds it difficult to breathe. This usually happens when you are exposed to triggers such as dust, smoke, cold and some medicines. The severity of asthma attacks vary from person to person. Asthma is more common in children and the elderly.

The following are symptoms that an asthmatic person may have:

• Difficulty in breathing.
• Wheezing (whistling sound when you breathe).
• Coughing.

You can work on the following to live well with asthma:

• Avoid triggers: common triggers include dust, smoke, pets, cold weather and some medicines. Once you identify your triggers, avoid them as much as you can. You may need to move houses, staying away from dusty places or avoiding cooking with firewood.
• Use medications: most likely you will use an inhaler that you should keep close and in sight at all times. You can keep one at home, in your car, purse, school bag or with close friends. Use medications as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Stop smoking: smoke is a common trigger for asthma. Avoid smoking or staying close to places where people are smoking. 
• Keep appointments: keep to your healthcare appointments and regular checkups. It is advisable to keep an asthma diary where you write down the number of attacks you’ve had in between appointments.
• Cold weather: cold weather is a common trigger of asthma. There are steps you can take to cope with the weather. These steps include wearing warmer items of clothing like sweaters and mufflers, getting vaccinated against influenza and breathing through your nose rather than through your mouth, as this warms up the air you breathe in.

As a caregiver you can provide support in by doing the following:

• Prevent exposure to triggers: Once you are aware of the things that trigger someone's asthma attack, make sure you reduce their exposure to triggers.
• Provide emotional support: someone with asthma will have good days and bad days. Be there to support and encourage that person. Accompany them during clinics visits when you can.

Asthma should not prevent you from enjoying a fulfilling life. Reduce exposure to your triggers and use your medicines as prescribed. Visit your healthcare provider when you have complaints and for check-ups.