Health Issue: Asthma

Asthma can be challenging and stressful. You may sometimes become frustrated, angry or depressed because you need to cut back on your usual activities to avoid environmental triggers. You may also feel hampered or embarrassed by the symptoms of the disease and by complicated management routines. Children in particular may be reluctant to use an inhaler in front of their peers.

But asthma doesn’t have to be a limiting condition. The best way to overcome anxiety and a feeling of helplessness is to understand your condition and take control of your treatment. Here are some suggestions that may help:

• Identify the things that trigger your symptoms. This can be one of the most important ways to take control of your life. Also take peak flow measurements regularly and follow your action plan for using medications and managing attacks.
• Pace yourself. Take breaks between tasks and avoid activities that make your symptoms worse.
• Make a daily to-do list. This may help you avoid feeling overwhelmed. Reward yourself for accomplishing simple goals.
• Talk to others with your condition. Chat rooms and message boards on the Internet or support groups in your area can connect you with people facing similar challenges and let you know you’re not alone.
• If your child has asthma, be encouraging. Focus attention on the things your child can do, not on the things he or she can’t. Involve teachers, school nurses, coaches, friends and relatives in helping your child manage asthma.