While ventolin inhalers online are commonly used to quickly relieve asthma symptoms, management of asthma requires more than just inhaler medication. Here are some of the key recommendations for keeping asthma under control beyond using an inhaler:
Avoid asthma triggers - The best way to control asthma is to avoid triggers that exacerbate your symptoms. Common asthma triggers include allergens like pollen, dust mites, and pet dander; irritants such as smoke and air pollution; weather changes; respiratory infections; exercise; and stress. Know your personal triggers and take steps to avoid them when possible. Use allergy medicines, air filters, and keep indoor air clean to reduce allergens. Don't smoke or expose yourself to secondhand smoke. Get treatment for infections to prevent flare-ups.
Follow an asthma action plan - Work with your doctor to develop a detailed asthma action plan that outlines how to monitor your condition and what steps to take at different severity levels of symptoms or attacks. The plan should specify how often to take long-term control medicines, what inhaler medications to use for quick relief, and what to do in case of emergencies. Following an action plan will help you and your doctor effectively manage your asthma and make changes to your treatment as needed to keep the condition well controlled.
Get regular checkups - See your doctor for asthma checkups at least twice a year or as otherwise directed in your asthma action plan. Regular visits allow your doctor to assess how well your asthma management plan is working, if your condition has changed, and if your medication regimen needs any adjustments. Lung function tests are often performed during checkups to monitor the health of your airways. Get a flu shot every year during checkups to prevent respiratory infections that can exacerbate asthma.
Take all prescribed medicines - Use your quick-relief inhaler as directed when needed, and take all long-term controller medicines daily as prescribed, even when you have no symptoms. Long-term medicines help reduce airway inflammation and prevent asthma attacks. Not taking the medicines regularly can lead to poorly controlled asthma and severe flare-ups. Work with your doctor if you have any issues with side effects or cost of medicines.
Manage stress and stay active - Try relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga to minimize stress, which can trigger asthma symptoms. Staying physically active with regular exercise also helps improve asthma control and overall health. Exercise is safe for most people with asthma when the condition is well managed. Talk to your doctor about an exercise plan that's right for you based on the severity of your asthma and your level of physical fitness.