It's fall in Chicago: that means wild fluctuations in the weather, mixed in with beautiful fall colors, and falling leaves. After a day or two of rain those leaves get moldy, and start to release spores, affecting our seasonal allergy and asthma sufferers.
Asthma: A Chronic Condition Explained
Asthma is a chronic condition that involves inflammation of the airways in the lungs, making breathing difficult at times.
Common Triggers
Allergens
Irritants
Viral infections
Weather changes
Coexisting Conditions
Allergic rhinitis
Chronic sinusitis
Sleep apnea
Acid reflux
Asthma Treatment:
This involves using inhalers and pill medications to control both allergy symptoms and help with breathing. It is important to identify triggers and limit exposure where possible.
Types of Inhalers for Asthma
Rescue Inhalers
Rescue inhalers are a crucial part of managing asthma as they are used to provide immediate relief from symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing, and chest tightness.
Commonly prescribed rescue inhalers include Albuterol and Levalbuterol, which work quickly to open up the airways during an asthma attack.
If a person finds themselves relying on their rescue inhaler more than twice a week, it may indicate poor asthma control, and a healthcare provider may recommend adding a controller inhaler to their treatment plan.
Controller Inhalers
Controller inhalers are used on a daily basis to manage and prevent asthma symptoms in the long term.
There are three main categories of controller inhalers, each with a specific role in controlling asthma:
Inhaled corticosteroids, such as fluticasone, budesonide, and mometasone, are anti-inflammatory medications that help reduce swelling and irritation in the airways.
Long-acting beta agonists work alongside corticosteroids to relax the muscles around the airways, making breathing easier and preventing asthma symptoms.
Long-acting muscarinic antagonists, like tiotropium, target mucus production and airway constriction, further enhancing asthma control.
Proper Use of Inhalers
After using inhaled corticosteroids, it is important to rinse the mouth to reduce the risk of developing fungal infections in the mouth and throat.
Collaborating closely with a healthcare provider is essential to tailor asthma treatment according to the individual's asthma severity and response to medications.
Dynamic Nature of Asthma
Asthma is a dynamic condition that can change over time, necessitating adjustments in inhaler use and overall management strategies.
Regular communication and collaboration with a healthcare provider are vital to ensuring optimal asthma control, adapting treatment plans, and preserving long-term lung function.
Use A Symptom Tracker App or Chart
Track your peak flow and allergy/asthma symptoms in a health app such as Apple Health. There are also aps that tract the allergy conditions and send you notifications when mold count is high etc. Knowing that daily count can help you correlate symptoms and peak flow changes to the allergen that is prevalent.
How To Use Your Inhaler With Spacer
Here is some guidance on using your "puffer" inhalers properly, as well as instructions for using your peak flow meter to monitor your lung function at home. Using your spacer consistently allows more medication to get to the bottom of your lungs. You can repeat the inward breath 5 times per puff (instead of trying to catch as much of the medicine in that one puff without spacer).
Shake the inhaler well before each use to mix the medication properly.
Remove the cap and hold the inhaler upright.
Breathe out completely to empty your lungs as much as possible.
Place the mouthpiece in the opening of the spacer
Place your lips around the mouthpiece of the spacer ensuring a good seal.
Start breathing in slowly, and as you do, press down on the inhaler to release the medication.
Continue to breathe in deeply through the spacer for about 3-5 seconds.
Hold your breath for at least 10 seconds to allow the medication to settle in your lungs.
Exhale slowly through your nose or mouth.
Repeat inhale 5 times for each puff
If you need a second dose, wait about 30 seconds and repeat these steps.
If you are not using a spacer, follow the same steps excluding step 10, and take slow, deep breaths to ensure the medication reaches deep into your lungs.
Using a Peak Flow Meter:
A peak flow meter is a great tool to help monitor how well your lungs are functioning and can provide early warnings if your asthma is worsening.
1. Set the marker to zero on the peak flow meter.
2. Stand or sit up straight to allow for a full, deep breath.
3. Take a deep breath in, filling your lungs completely.
4. Place the mouthpiece between your lips, forming a tight seal.
5. Blow out as hard and as fast as you can in one quick burst.
6. Note the reading on the meter and repeat the process 2 more times.
7. Record the highest reading of the three in your asthma log.
You can find more information on aaaai.org
Where to Buy Spacers and Peak Flow Meters:
At Cara Direct Care, we provide affordable options for most basic medical equipment to our members. Please contact us for pricing.
If you are not a member of Cara Direct Care, or you wish to order online, please see this Amazon shopping list for options:
Comments