It is said that asthma affects almost 4 million people around the world. It is often associated with frequent coughing and breathing difficulties. In the worst cases, some people die due to severe asthma attacks. If you or someone you know suffer from asthma symptoms, it is best to consult an asthma doctor and take asthma treatments as per prescription.

What you need to know about asthma

Asthma can be a potentially life-threatening condition if not managed well. It is a long-term medical condition that affects the airways. When the airways become inflamed due to certain triggers, it will tighten and cause breathing difficulties and the other common asthma symptoms we are familiar with.

Speaking of triggers, asthma can be due to allergic and non-allergic triggers. The former can be due to the presence of pollen, dust mites, molds, and pet dander among others. On the other hand, the latter can refer to air pollutants, intense exercise routines, and even uncontrollable emotions.

We might feel pity for seeing people experience asthma attacks. A lot of people might also think that it’s the end of the world for people with asthma since it can be a lifetime condition. However, this doesn’t mean that they cannot live their lives to the fullest. For those who suffer from asthma, it is important to follow their asthma treatments religiously to help them manage their condition better.

How it feels like to have asthma

You cannot simply imagine what it feels like to have asthma until you experience it yourself. For one thing, it is said that no two people experience the same asthma symptoms. Each of them will experience varying symptoms – from mild to severe – depending on the gravity of the condition.

Nevertheless, you should not take asthma for granted. If you experience any asthma symptoms, you should visit an allergist immediately. As to what it feels like to experience asthma attacks, some of those who experienced it first-hand described it as gasping for air like a fish that has been out of water.

Others described having asthma as if a large object is sitting on their chest – it was definitely hard to breathe according to these asthma sufferers. Asthma is also associated with constant coughing once the triggers occur. As a result, you have a hard time catching your breath.

Some also compared asthma attacks like breathing into a squished straw and getting their chest squeezed too much. You will also hear wheezing, which is not a normal thing when you are breathing. Regardless of how one feels, it can be one of the scariest things that can happen to you. For asthma management, make sure to visit an allergy physician for proper treatment.

Living a normal life despite having asthma

Asthma can affect one’s quality of life especially if you get exposed to certain triggers. But as mentioned, this doesn’t mean you cannot already live a normal life as possible despite having this condition. Here are some ways that can help you live normally even if you experience asthma attacks from time to time.

Be aware of your triggers.

It is important to know and identify what usually triggers your asthma so you can manage it better. For example, you need to stay away from the outdoors if you are allergic to pollen or any air contaminants. If you are allergic to pet dander, it may be a good idea not to have furry pets to lessen the risk of having asthma attacks.

Always bring an inhaler.

Inhalers have saved a lot of asthmatics thanks to its quick relief effects. Inhalers are usually prescribed by an allergy physician to provide relief from asthma attacks.

Make sure to clean your house regularly.

Some people may be allergic to dust mites and pet dander. That is why it is important to ensure cleanliness inside your home at all times. Instead of wool carpets, you can use other types of flooring such as laminate, wood, or tiles. Use vacuum cleaners with HEPA filter and clean every nook and cranny of your home.

Living life to the fullest

Even if you have asthma, it is still possible to live a normal life as long as you know how to manage it. Aside from staying away from triggers, make sure to follow your prescribed medications and visit an allergy specialist doctor in Manassas VA. Contact one today if you or someone you know have asthma symptoms.