Asthma can flare up fast. You don’t have to accept wheezing, lost sleep, or plans ruined by unexpected attacks. This page gives short, useful steps you can use now: spot triggers, use inhalers right, and know when to get help.
Carry your reliever inhaler (short-acting bronchodilator) wherever you go. If you feel tightness, wheeze, or coughing that won’t stop, use 1–2 puffs as directed and sit upright. If symptoms don’t ease in 10–15 minutes or you need the reliever more than twice a week for symptoms, call your doctor — that means your asthma isn’t controlled.
Learn correct inhaler technique. For MDIs (press-and-breathe), shake, breathe out, press as you start a slow deep breath, hold 5–10 seconds, then breathe out. Use a spacer with MDIs if you struggle with coordination — it boosts medicine delivery to the lungs and cuts mouth side effects.
Use a written asthma action plan. It tells you what daily meds to take, what to do when symptoms rise, and when to seek emergency care. Ask your clinician to write one and review it at least once a year.
Controller medicines (inhaled corticosteroids) cut airway inflammation and reduce flare-ups. Take them daily even when you feel fine. Relievers (like albuterol) open airways fast but don’t replace controllers. Long-acting inhalers, leukotriene modifiers, and, for severe allergic types, biologics (for example, anti-IgE or anti-IL5 drugs) are options your doctor may discuss.
Keep a log of peak flow readings if your doctor suggests one. A falling peak flow often shows trouble before you feel it. Track symptoms, peak flow, and reliever use for better treatment talks with your clinician.
Reduce triggers: stop smoking and avoid secondhand smoke, control dust mites (mattress covers, wash bedding hot), limit pet dander if allergic, fix damp or moldy spots, use allergy-friendly filters for your HVAC, and check air quality on high pollution days. For exercise-induced asthma, use your reliever before activity and warm up gradually.
Know emergency signs: severe shortness of breath, blue lips or face, trouble walking or talking, or poor response after using reliever inhaler. Call emergency services immediately if these happen.
Travel and kids: pack extra inhalers, spacers, and prescriptions. Teach children simple steps: tell an adult, sit up, use the reliever. For long trips, keep meds in carry-on bags and know local emergency numbers.
Finally, stay up to date with vaccines like flu and COVID shots — respiratory infections often trigger bad asthma attacks. Work with your provider to review your plan and adjust meds when life or seasons change. Want more how-to guides or medication info? Browse our articles or contact your healthcare team for a plan that fits your life.
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