Diagnosed With Asthma? These Lifestyle Changes Can Help Treat It

If you have been diagnosed with asthma, your doctor probably prescribed you some medications such as a rescue inhaler and corticosteroids. It is very important that you use these treatments as directed; they are very effective. However, there are also some lifestyle changes you can make to help keep your asthma symptoms under even better control. 

Switch to a better air filter.

Your home's HVAC system should be fitted with an air filter than traps dust, pollen, and other debris before it flows through the air ducts. But not all air filters are the same. The cheap fiberglass filters let through a lot of the smaller dust mites and other particles that may irritate your respiratory system and trigger asthma attacks. Switch to a HEPA filter, which will trap more of these small particles, thereby keeping your asthma under closer control.

Get your annual flu shot.

If you don't already, you should begin getting an annual flu shot. While the flu and asthma are separate conditions, coming down with the flu can cause your asthma to act up. Some people continue to have asthma attacks for weeks even after they recover from the flu. Getting the flu shot will decrease your chances of getting the flu, and even if you do get the flu, it will help ensure the flu is not as serious, which means it should not aggravate your asthma as much.

Eat a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids.

Asthma is related to inflammation. It is basically an inflammation of your airways. Omega-3 fatty acids are a class of nutrients that help fight against inflammation, including the inflammation associated with asthma. Food sources of omega-3 fatty acids include fatty fish, flax seeds, chia seeds, and walnuts. You can even take an omega-3 supplement if you have a hard time fitting these foods into your diet.

Lose weight.

If you are overweight, losing weight can help decrease the frequency and severity of your asthma attacks. People who are overweight tend to have more inflammation in their bodies. Plus, the weight can put excess pressure on your respiratory system, which can make an asthma attack worse than it otherwise would have been.

In addition to taking any medications your doctor has prescribed, make sure you make the lifestyle changes above to help treat your asthma. With some smart choices and changes, you can keep on breathing freely and comfortably. Find the right asthma treatment for you today. 

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