ASTHMA ATTACK (PART 3 OF 3)
TIPS FOR PREVENTION OF ASTHMA ATTACKS
· Keep the home airy and let sunlight in.
· Avoid carpets and heavy curtains.
· Always use a clean sheet inside the quilt or blanket.
· Don’t store grains inside the house.
· Avoid clutter.
· Wear a mask when going out in dusty or polluted areas or the vegetable market.
· Brush your teeth at least 2 times a day, and clean the tongue, mouth and nose.
· Gargle with salt water.
· Don’t smoke or use tobacco.
· Avoid strenuous exercise.
· Develop a moderate exercise program to improve lung capacity.
· Avoid aspirin and anti-inflammatory drugs as far as possible.
· Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
· Avoid alcohol, cold drinks, sour fruits and cold foods from the fridge.
· Avoid stress.
· Ensure adequate sleep.
· Keep medicines and inhalers at hand and be regular about medications and check ups.
· Undergo food allergy tests and keep away from foods you are allergic to.
· Eat small meals, at regular intervals, slowly and chew properly.
· Include lots of fresh vegetables and seasonal fruits in your diet.
· Avoid dairy products, non-vegetarian food, and processed, flavoured and preserved foods.
· Avoid heavy meals, especially at bed time.
· Get acidity and gas treated promptly.
· Inform any new doctor about your asthmatic status before any medication.
TRAVEL TIPS FOR AN ASTHMATIC PATIENT
· Carry your medications and inhalers.
· Carry earplugs, protective masks or a big handkerchief and warm clothes.
· Use an inhaler before undertaking strenuous activity.
· Carry clean sheets and pillow covers.
· Drink plenty of water.
· Carry a card declaring your asthmatic status and its emergency medicines.
· Check into hotel rooms with phone or call bell.
· Avoid exotic, untried foods, especially seafood.