Brief Answer:
Avoid the triggers

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

I will suggest the following precautions for asthma:

- Avoid the triggers. You must already be knowing the factors that can trigger an episode of asthma. These factors are mostly polluted air in the form of dust, cold or hot air, carpets, furry animals, pollens, bird droppings, smoke etc. Other triggers could be exercise, medicines like aspirin, emotional outbursts etc. Your asthma may not be triggered by all of these, so no need to avoid all. In practical life we cannot avoid all triggers. If asthma is getting triggered by exercise, then continue the routine physical activity as usual. When there is need for exercise, then take bronchodilator inhaler beforehand. Also avoid polluted water. Have dust mite proof mattress covers.

- When resorting to medicines for the asthma, start with the safest medicine. Bronchodilator inhaler is considered safe when taken on as needed basis. Steroidal medicines are considered as last resort as continuous intake may lead to side effects and loss of its efficacy in asthma. Two types of medicines- controller medicines and reliever medicines. No need to resort to experimental medicines that may have unknown side effects.

- Cough episodes should be written in a diary so that doctor can assess the severity of problem.

- Keep the inhaler handy.

Do ask specific question if any.
Dr. Vaishalee

---