|
    
TAKE CONTROL
Here are some tips to help you TAKE CONTROL:
• Learn all you can about asthma on the internet. Start at www.openairways.com and www.whatsasthma.com
• See your Doctor to review your asthma plan once a year- there are new medications now easier to use and more effective.
• Make an appointment to see asthma nurse:
- Debbie Barboza KEMH asthma education centre 239-1652 asthmacentre@bermudahospitals.bm
- Liz Boden Open Airways lizboden@openairways.com
- Jennifer Wilson School Asthma Nurse 3328915
• Remember to take your ‘preventer’ medication every day, even when you feel well!
• Always use a spacer when using ‘preventer’ inhalers and rinse your mouth after use.
• Avoid asthma triggers whenever possible.
• Do not use household sprays or aerosols to clean your home- use a damp cloth with vinegar and water, a dry Swiffer mop and a good quality vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter.
• Do not use fresh air sprays or plug-ins - have household plants to freshen the air and open windows every day in every room, even when using air-conditioners.
• Do not walk along busy roads, walk in the parks, on the trails and beaches.
• Do not allow smoking in your home; avoid smokey bars and restaurants.
• Do not encourage your child to have too many stuffed toys, place in the freezer weekly for 6 hours to kill the dust-mites.
• Do not have carpets in your home; wood or tile floors are much better.
• Do not have pets in the bedroom.
• Do not use an ionizer, which may make your asthma worse. There is no evidence to show that air-purifiers help asthma symptoms.
• Do buy a new pillow every year. Dust- mite covers do not help!
• Wash bed linen weekly with hot water.
• Allow your bed to air before making it. Turn your mattress every month.
• Do not use perfume; use soap, shower gel or body lotion to smell good!
• Eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly. Swimming helps your lungs and also playing a wind instrument such as a trumpet!
• Do deep breathing exercises – join a Yoga class.
• Do not bring Easter Lilies into your home.
Remember the goal is CONTROL.
Do you want to find the nearest qualified asthma or COPD health care professional? Click here >
How well do you have your asthma controlled?
To find out click here >
  
|
