Allercy and Asthma Health
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The Official Publication of AAN - MA

Summertime!

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by Grace Noynay, BS, RRT

Summer is a fun time. Summer means spending more time outdoors, camping, hiking, horseback riding, bike riding, and four wheeling. Summer means gardening, cooking out, barbecuing. Summer means traveling, canoeing and many other exciting activities.

As we face an exciting summer season, we are also facing many different types of triggers of allergies and asthma. Triggers can vary from pollen, insects, humidity, pollution, dust, stress, and over-exercise. Even the food we eat can trigger an asthma attack. It is a challenge for people with asthma to avoid these things, especially if we are not aware of what can lead to these triggers. Unfortunately, these triggers can change from time to time and it can even vary from person to person. Since asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition, it is important to recognize a person with asthma always has asthma even if they are not having symptoms.

It is very important to be aware of the signs of an asthma attack before an attack begins. Some simple signs of allergies or asthma could be sneezing, watery eyes, frequent cough, and wheezing. Some major signs include chest tightness and shortness of breath. If you have these signs and symptoms, visiting your primary care provider is essential.

To Avoid Asthma Crisis, Plan Your Day

Know your activities Whether out in the park with families, enjoying a picnic, walking your dog, eating out, and going to the movies, it is good to be protected.  Take your pills before hand and carry your quick-relief inhaler wherever you go. It is also a good idea to know the closest location of a hospital nearby just in case an emergency may arise.

Hygiene Poor hygiene makes you susceptible to viruses and bacteria that can lead to a more serious disease. It is also a huge contributor to asthma. Showering daily during the summertime is a good way to be clean and feel fresh. Washing your hand with soap and water before and after eating can keep the germs away. Carrying hand sanitizer is also a good alternative for keeping your hands clean if water and soap is not available.

Diet Keep track of what you eat. Nuts, dairy, and shellfish can be triggers. Drink a lot of fluids. Water is the best option and easily accessible. Don’t hesitate to bring bottled water wherever you go.

Environment Some states in America are experiencing uncontrollable wildfires. If this is within your area, evacuate as soon as you can, stay safe and wear a mask if available. If the fire does not resolve immediately, you can stay with relatives or friends to avoid exposure to the smoke.

Smoking Cigarette smoking is your lungs’ worst enemy. Secondhand smoke exposure is equally as bad. Avoid enclosed areas where people smoke such, as an airport lounge. This puts you at risk for secondhand smoke. Keeping yourself from being exposed to smoke this summer will decrease your chance of having an asthma attack

Your primary care provider will be able to use information from your medical history, physical exam, and necessary tests to form a personalized asthma action plan. The goal is not only to prevent asthma attacks, but to make your summer a success!

Grace Noynay is a Registered Respiratory Therapist at University of Colorado Hospital and a member of the American Association for Respiratory Care.

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