My name is Marilyn Baker, and I have horrible allergies. I’m 42 years old and have been suffering from allergies since I was a child. I have seasonal and environmental allergies. Allergies plague me year round. When I was young, my parents even moved to a dryer area in the hope of helping me. Over the past eight years, I have done extensive research both through doctors and online. I have managed to come up with some combinations that have helped me a great deal. My allergies aren’t gone, but they have become manageable. I do have to have allergy shots, but I also use some natural remedies. I am happy to be able to share my findings with you here on my blog. I hope you can find some of this of value.
Asthma is a lung condition that affects many people. It can make it hard for you to breathe, and in severe cases, it can be dangerous. If you suspect you have asthma, here are four things you should do.
1. Visit your doctor.
If you find yourself feeling short of breath, the first thing you should do is schedule an appointment with your doctor. Your doctor will listen to your lungs with a stethoscope and perform a blood test to rule out other possible conditions. If they determine that you may have asthma, your doctor may refer you to a specialist.
2. Take a lung function test.
A specialist will administer a lung function test, also called a pulmonary function test. Pulmonary function testing measures how efficiently your lungs process air. According to the Mary Parkes Asthma Center, this test also measures the oxygenation of your blood. If your pulmonary function is lower than normal, that is an indicator that you may have asthma. Your specialist may also ask you questions about your symptoms. Some people have asthma that is brought on or exacerbated by exercise, and that's information that your doctor will want to know.
3. Start a treatment regimen.
If you have chronic asthma, your doctor may prescribe medication to help you get it under control. The purpose of these medications is to reduce or eliminate your asthma attacks. Maintenance medication for asthma may come in an inhaler or in pill form. Your doctor will take the results of your pulmonary function test and use them to tailor a treatment plan for you.
4. Participate in cardiovascular activities.
When you have asthma, cardiovascular health is even more important. Regularly partaking in cardio exercise can improve your lung function and overall health. Before starting any new exercise regimen, you should consult your doctor first. Remember to start slow if you're new to exercise. A brisk walk every evening is a good way to get your blood flowing and strengthen your lungs. If you have a rescue inhaler, you should always carry it with you when you exercise. It's better to be safe than sorry, and you don't want to have an asthma attack and be caught without it.
If you think you have asthma, your doctor can help you figure out your next steps. When properly treated, asthma doesn't have to negatively impact your life. Early testing, diagnosis, and the right medication can make asthma no big deal.
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