It can be scary to have difficulty breathing, so controlling asthma symptoms is important. Asthma treatment in Starkville MS typically includes a few different steps to make it easier to limit symptoms in the first place and deal with any that still occur even when taking appropriate preventative measures.
Avoid Asthma Triggers
Keep track of what tends to trigger your asthma attacks so you can avoid these triggers as much as possible. This could be the presence of dust mites or mold, pollen in the air, high humidity, cold or dry air, or allergies that aren’t well controlled. Use encasements on pillows and mattresses to limit dust mites, use a dehumidifier to limit the humidity, and consider using air filters.
Take Any Allergy Medications You Are Prescribed
Allergies can exacerbate asthma symptoms and bring on or worsen an attack. Because of this, it’s important to do everything you can to control any allergies you have either by avoiding the allergen or taking the appropriate medication, such as allergy shots or omalizumab.
Use a Quick-Relief Medication During Asthma Attacks
Should you have an asthma attack, using an inhaler containing a quick-relief medication such as ipratropium, corticosteroids, or short-acting beta-agonists can help stop the attack in its tracks. However, if you are having attacks very often or having very severe attacks, you may also need to take long-term control medication.
Consider Long-Term Asthma Control Medications
These medications are taken every day and help limit asthma attacks. Examples include long-acting beta agonists, leukotriene modifiers, and inhaled corticosteroids. Typically, doctors prescribing asthma treatment in Starkville MS will start at a higher dose to control asthma as soon as possible. Once the asthma is under better control, the doctor will try to gradually reduce the dosage until it is no longer effective to determine the lowest dose that works with your asthma.
Potential Benefits of Asthma Medications
Using medications to control your asthma may also make it so you can breathe better when you exercise and so you sleep better.
Visit us to find out more about the treatment options available. We also offer other children’s health services.
