Asthma is a disease that affects every person differently. A healthy lifestyle can help you manage asthma. Here are some tips to manage asthma:

1. Asthma Triggers

Identification of asthma triggers is the most important step in the management of asthma. A trigger is anything that irritates the airways and leads to an asthma attack. It can differ from person to person and season to season. Common triggers include allergens (dust mites, pollen, cockroaches, moulds, animal dander, etc.), viral infections (flu, cold), irritants (perfumes, aerosols, smoke, paint fumes, hair spray, air fresheners), weather changes, exercise, and breathing in cold air. Once you identify your triggers, you can make changes in your surrounding environment to minimize exposure.

2. Action Plan

Make an asthma action plan for yourself. An action plan is a detailed outline created by you or your doctor. It includes information on how to react if symptoms appear, when to take medications, and what to do if an asthma attack is imminent. The albuterol inhaler is a rescue medication that you should always keep with you for quick relief.

3. Get rid of the mites

Dust mites are one of the most common asthma allergens. Use dust-proof zipped covers for your pillow and mattress. Avoid down comforters or pillows. Wash your sheets weekly and clean the mattress regularly. Replace carpets with hardwood or tile flooring, as carpets attract dust. Avoid stuffed toys or anything that collects dust.

4. Breathing tools and tests

Doctors use a spirometer to measure the amount of air inhaled and exhaled. Since not everyone can have this equipment at home, you can use a peak flow meter instead. It measures your breathing capacity and can detect airway obstruction or inflammation. It may even detect a drop in lung function 2–3 days before a flare-up, giving you enough time to take precautions.

5. Exercise

Physical activity is important for people with asthma as it improves blood flow and lung capacity. While strenuous exercise may trigger symptoms, following proper precautions can help. A 30-minute brisk walk is recommended. Include self-management activities such as yoga, swimming, martial arts, or trekking. Always take 2 puffs of your prescribed medication before exercising.