According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 13 people has asthma. That translates to more than 26 million Americans.
Asthma is a condition in which your airways narrow and swell, producing extra mucus resulting in difficulty breathing.
If this narrowing and swelling occurs and worsens, it may lead to an asthma attack.
Some tips to help you prevent asthma symptoms from occurring include:
- Family history of asthma
- Viral respiratory infections as a child
- Allergies
- Smoking
- Air Pollution
- Obesity
Some strategies you help prevent the symptoms of asthma are:
- Stop smoking and avoid public places where cigarette smoking occurs
- Avoid outdoor exposure on heavy smog days
- Adopt a healthy diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein
- Avoid allergens that trigger asthma attacks, such as pet dander, dust, mites, mold and pollen.
If you have recurrent coughing or wheezing that lasts more than a couple of days or any other signs or symptoms of asthma listed above, you should schedule an appointment to see your doctor since treating asthma early can help prevent long-term lung damace and reduce the likelihood of your asthma worsening over time.
If you would like to speak with a respiratory specialist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-7001 for an appointment.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.