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Top 5 Ways To Prevent An Asthma Attack Outdoors

  

What can be worse than having an asthma attack outdoors? The fresh air instead of soothing you cause breathlessness and wheezing? Outdoors are synonymous with good health and vitality but not for someone suffering from asthma. Air pollution, pollen, smoke, dust and other allergens are in ample amounts and can really trigger a massive asthma attack outdoors. For an asthma patient, being outdoors is like walking on eggshells.   Should that make you sit at home? Not at all. Being outdoors is related to health and longevity. Here are some ways to prevent an asthma attack when outdoors.

  1. Air Quality

Having a respiratory disease means that the effect of air pollution will be felt more than those who have healthy lungs. While poor air quality may make no visible difference to a regular person, to someone suffering from asthma it could mean a fight between life and death. If you are venturing out, keep a watch on the air quality index. Green on the index means ‘good’ while maroon/red means ‘hazardous’.

  1. Weather

When planning a trip outdoors, ensure that the weather suits your breathing. Cold air is very dry and can set off an asthma attack as can hot, dry air in deserts. Keep your face covered with a scarf or a mask and take it off only once you are indoors. Even humidity is not a perennial friend. In fact, it is tougher to manage. During bad weather days, exercise during times when the weather is more accommodating.

  1. Plan Your Workout

Strenuous workouts can leave you feeling breathless in more ways than one. Stop before you have pushed yourself too hard. Moderate, regular exercise would ensure you stay healthy and not tax your lungs. Early mornings are associated with high pollen quantity in the air so avoid exercising then. You could try other options to stay fit apart from high energy workouts. Yoga and swimming are good alternatives.

  1. Being Smart

Keep a mask handy for situations when nature takes you by surprise. You could also take preventive puffs from your inhaler if you expect to be out in conditions that could trigger your asthma attack. You would need your doctor’s permission for this. Another way to prevent an asthma attack once you are back from outdoors is by taking a shower and changing your clothes. Wearing a cap during pollen-high seasons ensures that none of them gets stuck in your hair and triggers an attack.

  1. Preventive Steps

To avoid an asthma attack, there are certain steps you can take like wearing long-sleeved clothes, full-length pants and avoiding using any hair products as they trap allergens. Always start your workouts after warming up and end them with proper cooling down session.

It is important that you don’t avoid exercise because you have asthma. Being active is needed for good physical and mental health. You just have to do it in a manner that is most suitable for your condition. Talk to your doctor to follow the best line of treatment to prevent asthma attacks.

Read More: Asthma Causes and Triggers

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