YOUR HEALTH: Asthma  sufferers  need an  action plan

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By Steven Sutton, Guest columnist 1:00 PM Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Cincinnati summers can be dangerous for asthmatics — days filled with high heat, high humidity and smog bring together many risk factors for an attack. During this season, it’s important that patients know their own triggers and how to manage them to avoid complications.

Asthma is a chronic inflammation of the lung’s airways, usually characterized by a cough, shortness of breath and wheezing. In an asthma attack, airways contract and the patient cannot get enough air into the lungs. The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology estimates the disease affects 22 million people in the U.S., 6.5 million of those under 18 years old.

Asthma is a very individualized disease. As an asthma specialist, I encourage all of my patients to understand their own triggers to help prevent an attack.

But there are some seasonal trends that pose a problem for many patients. In general, high pollen levels, humidity, heat and pollution can all cause asthma to flare up. Consider these factors when choosing the time and place for any outdoor activities .

On days with high pollution or pollen, asthmatics should stay in cooler environments or in air-conditioning if possible, avoiding lawn care and outdoor exercises. Make sure to check the daily pollen levels and air quality to know what the conditions are.

If you find yourself near a trigger or in the beginnings of an attack, take your rescue medication and remove yourself from the trigger as soon as possible — it’s the best way to prevent an attack from progressing.

In the meantime, work with your physician to develop an asthma action plan, a personalized document that helps you self-manage your asthma and know when to seek emergency care.

Finally, nothing minimizes your risk of attacks better than consistent use of your prescribed controller. Try keeping it in an obvious place or incorporating it as part of your daily routines.

Steven Sutton, MD, is an allergist specializing in the care of asthma with UC Health Otolaryngology. To schedule an appointment, call (513) 793-6861.

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