Management plans and publications

• Statewide Asthma Plan
• Action Management Plans
• Reports
• One Page Info Sheets
• Lung Health Focus Newsletter

Tips To Manage Asthma

1. Know what asthma is

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways. Airways get red, swollen, tight and make more mucus. It can cause symptoms like cough, wheeze, or shortness of breath.

You have persistent asthma if you have:

• Day symptoms − more than 2 times a week
• Night symptoms − more than 2 times a month

2. Know your medicines and how to use them

Controller – Used every day to control inflammation

Quick-Relief – Keep this with you, but use only as needed.

Devices - Know how to use your spacer or nebulizer.

3. Know what makes your asthma worse (triggers)

• Stay away from things that cause your symptoms. This may be pets, dust, pollen, colds, smoke, cold air, or other things at home or work.
• If you get symptoms with exercise, use your quick relief medicine before you exercise.

4. Keep track of your symptoms

• Use a peak flow meter ifyour doctor or nurse suggests one.
• Keep a record of your symptoms, peak flow numbers and dates. Take to doctor/nurse visits.

5.Have a written asthma plan created with your doctor or nurse

Schedule visits to review your plan.

 

courtesy of MaineHealth

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