If you have been diagnosed with asthma, just knowing the prescribed medication isn’t really enough. There’s a lot more you should know and ask your doctor when you’re not completely aware of everything that comes with asthma. Questions for your doctor if you have asthma could include clarifying your asthma action plan, discussing potential side effects of medications, and exploring lifestyle modifications to better manage the condition. Keep reading to learn more about asthma and how to handle it for your day-to-day life.

 

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Question: Is it necessary to consume multivitamins to manage asthma better?

According to a 2015 review of studies published in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, there is no clear association between following a Western diet (rich in refined sugar, fats, and processed foods) and the rate of asthma in adults. However, there is evidence that a Western diet may increase the severity or frequency of asthma attacks. This is primarily because a Western diet is linked to an increased risk of vitamin deficiencies.

 

Another 2013 review published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine found no solid evidence that vitamin E intake is not generally associated with asthma status.

 

While multivitamins are important to keep our health vitals in check, a few are also beneficial in managing the symptoms and frequency of asthma, specifically vitamin D.

 

For example, vitamin D deficiency has been linked to increased asthma symptoms. So make sure your vitamin D levels are on mark or else incorporate supplementation to bring it back to the optimal levels. This nutrient strengthens the response of the immune system and ensures your body's defense mechanism is strong against germs. Also, this could lessen swelling in your airways.

 

Related Story: How to Manage Asthma Better

 

Question: Are there any complementary therapies that I can use along with my asthma medications?

Alongside your asthma medications, you can explore various alternative therapies, including breathing exercises such as the Papworth method and the Buteyko method. Papworth technique focuses on diaphragmatic breathing, which involves using the diaphragm instead of the chest muscles to breathe. It also emphasises nasal breathing, relaxation, and control of breathing rhythm. Also, this method aims to reduce hyperventilation and improve overall breathing efficiency.

 

The Buteyko method aims to reduce the amount of medication needed to control asthma symptoms by teaching individuals to breathe slowly and shallowly through the nose. It focuses on retraining breathing patterns to reduce the tendency for over-breathing (hyperventilation), which can exacerbate asthma symptoms. These techniques have shown some evidence of improving symptoms and reducing the need for reliever medications in certain individuals.

 

However, it's crucial to remember that these exercises should complement your medication regimen rather than replace it entirely. Always consult with your healthcare provider before incorporating any new therapies, especially when managing a chronic condition like asthma.

 

Also, some people with asthma report relief from symptoms through acupuncture or acupressure treatments. While more research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness of these practices for asthma management, some individuals find them helpful as complementary therapies.

 

Question: Can asthma medication cause tremors?

According to a 2012 study published by Pulmonary Pharmacology & Therapeutics around 2 to 4 per cent experience tremors after regular consumption of β2-adrenergic agonist (asthma medication).

 

If you're just starting on asthma medication, don't be alarmed if you experience tremors after taking it. It's a common side effect and nothing to be frightened of. It can occur in some cases as a side effect of the medicine. These usually go away quickly.  This side effect is more commonly associated with medications like short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs), such as albuterol, which are often used as reliever inhalers to quickly open up the airways during an asthma attack.

 

The reason why these medications can cause tremors is because they activate beta-adrenergic receptors in the body, which can lead to increased stimulation of the nervous system. This stimulation can result in side effects like tremors, especially if the medication is used in higher doses or more frequently than recommended.

 

Additionally, other factors such as individual sensitivity to the medication, concurrent use of other medications, and underlying health conditions can also contribute to the likelihood of experiencing tremors as a side effect. Also, for many individuals caffeine tends to exacerbate tremors, so consider cutting back on caffeinated drinks like coffee, tea, and soda.

 

Many people with asthma find warm air soothing. A steam bath -- in a sauna or your shower at home -- can help clear out mucus that can make it hard to breathe. One word of caution: Some people find that heat makes their asthma worse, so it's important to know your personal triggers.

 

Related story: 3 Ways Climate Change Affects Your Health

 

 

Question: What kind of inhalers do I need?

This is the question you ought to ask your doctor. There are different types of inhalers meant for different patients with varying symptoms based on the severity and frequency. Ranging from a reliever inhaler to a preventer inhaler, the doctor would be the best person to guide you in picking the best one for you. Do not forget to ask questions like how often should I use my long-acting inhaler? And when should I use a rescue inhaler? A reliever inhaler, also known as a rescue inhaler, is used to quickly relieve asthma symptoms during an asthma attack. It contains medication, usually a bronchodilator, which helps to relax the muscles around the airways, making it easier to breathe.

 

Reliever inhalers are fast-acting and provide immediate relief when asthma symptoms flare up. On the other hand, a preventer inhaler, also called a controller inhaler, is used regularly to prevent asthma symptoms from occurring in the first place. It contains medication, typically a corticosteroid, that helps to reduce inflammation in the airways over time. By keeping inflammation under control, preventer inhalers help to prevent asthma attacks and reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms.

 

If using either of these reliever and preventer inhalers does not control your asthma, you may need an inhaler that combines both. Combination inhalers are used every day to alleviate the symptoms occurring and provide long-lasting relief if they do occur. The medications are administered through a mouthpiece or mask. They’re easier to use because you can breathe normally. That makes them good for children or people with severe asthma who may not be able to use the other types of inhalers.

 

Next comes metered-dose inhalers (MDIs), which are commonly known as Hydrofluoroalkane inhalers (HFAs). These are the ones you've probably spotted in movies or advertisements. You press down on them, and they squirt out a dose of medicine in a mist form. It's like a quick shot of relief straight to your lungs when you're having trouble breathing.Another major type of inhalers are dry powder inhalers (DPIs). These inhalers are like the powdered version of your medication. Instead of a mist, they give you your medications in a fine powder form. You don't have to worry about pressing down and inhaling at the same time, just take a deep breath and let the powder do its thing.

 

Related story: How Much Do You Know About Your Lung Health

 

Question: What do I do during an asthma attack?

First things first, take your rescue medication immediately. Sitting upright can help ease breathing by allowing your lungs to expand fully. Avoid lying down, as this can compress your chest and make breathing more difficult. Also, if you're wearing tight clothing, especially around your chest or abdomen, loosen it to allow for easier breathing. Knowing your triggers helps. If you know what triggers your asthma attacks (such as allergens, smoke, or cold air), try to remove yourself from that environment as soon as possible to prevent further exacerbation of symptoms.

 

Stop whatever you are doing-especially if you are doing something rigorous, be it exercise, running or jogging. Sit down and relax till the symptoms subside. Try to breathe in through your nose and out from your mouth. This will help warm the air as it enters your lungs. During an attack, it is highly advisable to stay hydrated. So regularly sip water, juice, or tea. However, ensure that whatever you are drinking is at room temperature. Anything too hot or cold can cause muscle spasms in the airways.

 

Also, remember to follow your asthma action plan. It's a set of instructions from your doctor that helps you handle your asthma day-to-day and during flare-ups. It includes things like which medications to take, when to take them, how to recognize when your symptoms are getting worse, and what to do in case of an emergency. It's like having a handy guidebook to navigate through your asthma journey.

 

Need all your wellness solutions in one place? A whole new world awaits just a click away.

 

Regular health checks are essential for everyone, but they are particularly important for individuals who are at risk of or already have asthma. Taking regular health checks can help detect the condition at an early stage when it is easier to manage and treat. With the UR.Life HRA, we help you to invest in your well-being through seamless interventions and targeted medical treatments. Our holistic wellness approach caters to all aspects of your well-being. We ensure that you can bring your whole self to work.

With our medical professionals by your side, routine health check-ups will never be an issue. Advanced laboratory technologies back UR.Life’s Occupational Health Centers (OHC), and with highly qualified experts/technicians, we’re committed to delivering trusted and quality recommendations, modifications and advice to you.