Surprising Factors Affecting Your Asthma Control

By Cara Jones, BDO Staff Writer
From – https://blackdoctor.org/
Reprinted – by Texas Metro News

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects millions of people worldwide, causing symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. When you have asthma, it’s crucial to be aware of your triggers—environmental and behavioral factors that worsen your symptoms and can lead to an attack. Some triggers, like exercise and tree pollen allergies, are well-known asthma risk factors. Beyond triggers, issues with your diagnosis or treatment could be leaving you ineffective in managing your symptoms, leading to asthma complications. To take control and breathe better, it’s important to understand what might be causing your symptoms.

1. Poor Medication Adherence

One of the most common reasons for uncontrolled asthma is poor medication adherence. Asthma requires long-term management, and it’s essential to take prescribed medications consistently, even when symptoms are not present. Skipping doses or not using inhalers correctly can lead to exacerbations and poor asthma control.

2. Underlying Triggers

Identifying and managing triggers is key to controlling asthma. Common triggers include allergens (e.g., pollen, dust mites, pet dander), respiratory infections, air pollution, tobacco smoke, and weather changes. Failing to address these triggers can lead to persistent symptoms despite medication use.

Some people believe hypoallergenic pets won’t trigger asthma, but allergens are still present in their saliva and skin. It’s essential to understand the true risks of pet ownership if you have asthma.

3. Inadequate Treatment Plan

Asthma management should be personalized based on the severity of the condition and individual triggers. Using the wrong medications or not adjusting the treatment plan as needed can result in poor control.

Some medications, like beta-blockers, can interfere with asthma control. Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider are essential to review the treatment plan and make necessary adjustments.

4. Lack of Education

Many individuals with asthma may not fully understand their condition and how to manage it effectively. Education about asthma triggers, medications, inhaler techniques, and action plans for exacerbations is crucial. Lack of awareness can lead to ineffective management and uncontrolled symptoms. If you are uncertain of something, ask your doctor for guidance.

5. Other Health Conditions

Certain conditions, like environmental allergies, GERD, and obstructive sleep apnea, can worsen asthma symptoms. Obesity can also make it harder to breathe during physical activity. Conditions like tracheomalacia and bronchomalacia, where airways are floppy, can both worsen asthma and mimic its symptoms. Working with your doctor to address these conditions can help improve asthma control.

6. Environmental Factors

Environmental factors play a significant role in asthma control. Living in areas with high pollution levels, exposure to

secondhand smoke, and inadequate housing conditions can worsen asthma symptoms. Addressing these environmental factors is crucial for improving asthma control.

7. Psychological Factors

Strong emotions, like stress, anxiety, and even laughter or crying, can trigger asthma symptoms. While it’s not always possible to avoid these emotions, reducing stress through techniques like adequate sleep, lifestyle modifications, and relaxation techniques can help.

8. Weather Changes

Going from warm to cold or dry to humid air can trigger asthma. While you can’t control the weather, limiting outdoor time during triggers and using a scarf to warm air can help.

9. Hormonal Changes

Puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can worsen asthma in women. Understanding the potential effects of hormonal changes on your asthma control is important.

10. Dietary Triggers

Food allergies and sensitivities, like sulfite sensitivity, can trigger asthma symptoms. Keeping a food diary can help identify trigger foods to avoid.

11. Severe Asthma

Some people may have more severe asthma that requires different treatment approaches. It’s essential to discuss your symptoms with your doctor to explore appropriate treatment options.

12. Misdiagnosis

Sometimes, symptoms that seem like asthma may be caused by other conditions, such as vocal cord dysfunction. Seeking a second opinion from a specialist can help ensure an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Understanding these surprising reasons for uncontrolled asthma can help you work with your healthcare team to develop a comprehensive management plan tailored to your needs, improving your quality of life and reducing the impact of asthma on your daily activities.