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How You Can Control Your Asthma
What is Asthma?
Asthma is one of the most common chronic lung conditions and can affect the respiratory system throughout a person’s lifetime. Understanding how to control your asthma is important for reducing symptoms and improving quality of life.
Although asthma commonly affects children, adults may also develop the condition. According to the Government of Canada, millions of Canadians live with asthma and experience asthma-related symptoms or attacks.
Asthma is commonly associated with symptoms such as:
- Coughing
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
- Wheezing
While there is currently no cure for asthma, many individuals can manage symptoms effectively with the right diagnosis, treatment plan, and lifestyle adjustments.
Understanding Asthma Triggers
Exposure to “asthma triggers” can increase the risk of asthma symptoms or attacks. Because triggers vary from person to person, learning how to control your asthma often begins with identifying and avoiding personal triggers.
Common asthma triggers may include:
- Tobacco smoke
- Dust mites
- Outdoor air pollution
- Mold
- Pet dander
- Cockroach allergens
- Strong odors or fragrances
- Wood or grass-burning smoke
- Respiratory infections such as the flu
Recognizing triggers and reducing exposure may help improve asthma control.
Tips on How to Control Your Asthma
Be Mindful of Your Symptoms
Breathing difficulties, wheezing, chest tightness, and coughing may be signs that asthma symptoms are not well controlled. If symptoms worsen, it is important to follow your healthcare provider’s advice or seek medical guidance.
At Queen Peoples Pharmacy, our pharmacists are committed to helping patients better understand how to control your asthma through personalized medication support and asthma management guidance.
Our pharmacists may review your asthma medications and work closely with you and your healthcare provider to help optimize your treatment plan.
Recognize Your Triggers
Common asthma triggers include:
- Smoke
- Vapors
- Viruses
- Pollen
- Temperature changes
- Animal fur or feathers
- Strong fragrances
Recognizing and avoiding your triggers is an important part of learning how to control your asthma effectively.
Remember to Use Your Inhalers Properly
Reliever inhalers (bronchodilators) help improve breathing by relaxing and opening the airways. Preventer inhalers, such as steroid inhalers, help reduce inflammation in the lungs and support long-term asthma management.
Using inhalers correctly is one of the most important steps in understanding how to control your asthma and maintain an active lifestyle.
If you are unsure how to use your inhaler properly, our pharmacists can provide guidance and demonstrate proper inhaler technique.
Monitor Your Asthma Symptoms
Tracking symptoms can help you better manage asthma over time. Common symptoms may include:
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Chest heaviness
- Fatigue
- Reduced physical activity
Keeping an asthma diary and sharing updates with your healthcare provider may help improve asthma management and identify symptom patterns.
Avoid Exposure to Smoke
Smoke exposure can worsen asthma symptoms. Individuals with asthma are encouraged to avoid:
- Tobacco smoke
- Candles
- Incense
- Fireworks
- Fire smoke
Avoiding smoking environments is an important part of how to control your asthma and reduce symptom flare-ups.
Asthma Support at Queen Peoples Pharmacy
At Queen Peoples Pharmacy, we are dedicated to helping patients better understand how to control your asthma through personalized pharmacy care and medication support.
Our experienced pharmacists can assist with:
- Asthma medication reviews
- Inhaler technique guidance
- Prescription refills
- Personalized medication support
Conveniently located inside Bow Trail Medical Clinic in SW Calgary, our team is here to support your respiratory health and overall well-being.
“Your path to better breathing starts here.”
Visit us today to learn more about asthma care and medication support.
