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11.25.2013

The 'ber Months, and Asthma.

As the 'ber months and the cold and nippy weather kick in, so do colds, cough, and flu. But for people with asthma (like me), it could be worse, as a simple cold virus can easily lead to a nasty asthma attack.

When this happens, the lining of the bronchial tubes swell, which then causes the airways to narrow and reduce the flow of air into and out of the lungs. Asthma has a relatively low fatality rate compared to other chronic diseases, however, it is the most common chronic disease among children.

According to estimates by the World Health Organization (WHO), there are 235 million people around the world who suffer from asthma. And these 235 million people are the ones who need to take extra precaution during the onset of cold weather.


Here are five easy tips to avoid asthma attacks during the cold seasons:

1) Take your asthma medicines regularly, as prescribed by your doctor.
2) If your asthma is easily triggered by cold air, make sure to take a puff or two of your inhaler before stepping outside.
3) Bring your inhaler wherever you go.
4) Dress warmly. Wear a scarf if possible, and make sure to cover your mouth and nose with it.
5) Be extra careful when exercising outside, in the cold weather. Warm up for at least 10-15 minutes before exercising, and take one or two puffs of your inhaler before you start.

This may sound so cliche, but an ounce of prevention is always, always worth a pound of cure.

11 replies:

Rhea Bue | Styles and Writes said...

I used to have asthma and I'm so happy kase ngayon wala na.. naagapan siya nung bata pa ako. hihihihi :D

Gellie Abogado said...

Thank God I never had asthma ever but my twin cousin have 'em. Would share this post to them! Very practical, helpful and a reminder to everyone who has one or who has a family member na meron :)

Chani Rosa said...

Good advice. I had asthma when I was younger but thankfully I grew out of it.

Animetric said...

I'm just happy none of my kids have asthma. It must be very difficult.

The Phenomenal Mama said...

Thanks for the timely word of caution!

Kero said...

very timely post and I am happy to share it with my friends. Ashthma is a growing concern here in the dusty desert

Liz Mays said...

Good advice and I hadn't really thought about the cold being a trigger!

earthlingorgeous said...

my sis suffers from the "winter" months too but the brrrrr months is something she didn't like at all

Lexie Lane said...

I felt sad when my son started wheezing. I know it's also allergy season but you're so right about asthma. Scarf is definitely a good idea.

Chris said...

my daughter is asthmatic and she has colds just this week :(

ReviewsSheRote said...

many great tips--- we don't have an issue with the cold as much as when playing sports. NOT FUN!