Do’s & Don’ts For Asthmatics During These Times

Asthma is a chronic condition which can be managed well with the help of the right treatment in these difficult times. It is important for asthmatics to manage their asthma triggers and take their long-term controller medicine as prescribed to prevent asthma episodes during these times. Unprecedented times like these can give rise to a lot of queries among the asthmatics on how they should take care of themselves. People suffering from asthma need to know the do’s and don’ts to prevent an asthma attack.

What should an Asthmatic “Do”

• The best way to deal with difficult situation arising now is to avoid getting exposed to the external environment and stay at home
• Wash your hands at regular intervals with soap and water. If you are unable to wash your hands, use an alcohol-based sanitizer
• Use a peak flow meter to track peak expiratory flow rate and monitor your lung function. It will help you record and manage your daily progress
• Consult your doctor for an Asthma Action Plan for effective home monitoring of asthma and managing symptoms
• Manage your asthma triggers and avoid them as best as you can to prevent your asthma getting worse
• Use a pressurized metered dose inhaler via spacer during severe exacerbations.
• If you are taking nebulized medicines at home, check with your doctor about the precautions that you should be taking.
• Use your inhalers on time as prescribed by your doctor to manage your asthma
• Keep your Inhalers handy if you are going out of your home. Use it to manage your asthma.
• Wash your inhalation devices regularly to keep them hygienic and clean.
• If you feel unwell call your healthcare provider immediately.

What should an asthmatic “Not Do”

• Do not suspend/stop your inhalation medication. It is advised to continue taking your inhaler to maintain optimal health. Having a poorly controlled chronic condition may put you at increased risk of severe illness.
• Do not share your Inhaler and Spacer with anyone else.
• Do not go for non-urgent, and unnecessary doctor visits. If you have a previously scheduled appointment, contact your healthcare provider to discuss rescheduling. You can even talk to your doctors over the phone for consultation
• Do not go for diagnostic tests like spirometry and/or pulmonary function tests. If you have a test scheduled, talk to your diagnostic centre and the healthcare provider and reschedule it.
• Do not go outside for unnecessary reasons like visiting parks, gyms or restaurants.
• Avoid visiting ill people or relatives who are unwell. Try and keep yourself updated on their health by tele calling or video calling them.
• Do not resort to advance exercise regime. Try and do light exercises at home if required
• Do not travel. Now is not the time to visit others and also avoid crowded places.

T&C Apply.