Overview
The world of fashion, beauty, and technology has been bombarded with the segment called “What’s in Your Bag?” Celebrities, prominent bloggers, and beauty experts all around the world have participated in this popular segment. They reveal what’s in their bag and discuss their daily must-haves. Because of this, people have become more mindful of the things they have to put in their bags. While these influential people include their gadgets or makeup to their must-haves, it’s somehow different for individuals with asthma.
People with asthma have control of their condition by just taking medications on a regular basis and avoiding situations that can trigger an asthma attack. If you have asthma, then you know the things that you should always carry with you in order to avoid life-threatening circumstances. But before we delve deeper into your must-haves, let us first learn certain facts about this chronic condition.
All About Asthma
Asthma is a respiratory condition that causes the airways to get inflamed and narrow. This makes breathing difficult. Allergens or irritants can enter the lungs and trigger asthma symptoms. Some of the symptoms that could manifest include wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing and tightness in the chest.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 13 people has asthma. More than 25 million Americans have the condition. Furthermore, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, Asthma accounts for 9.8 million doctor’s office visits, 188,968 discharges from hospital inpatient care and 1.8 million emergency department visit each year. Even though these numbers are quite alarming, individuals with asthma can still live a normal life with proper treatment.
Now that we know some basic facts about asthma, we can now jump to the must-haves of an asthma patient.
4 Essential Things that You Should Have in Your Bag if You Have Asthma
When you go out to do some certain tasks such as picking up the groceries or just spending time at your friend’s house, you need to bring a few items with you. These might include your keys, phone, and your wallet. However, if you have asthma, there are things that you just cannot leave at home. Here are some of the asthma essentials that should be found in your bag when going out:
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Bronchodilator Inhaler
A bronchodilator inhaler or sometimes called as the rescue inhaler is the most important item that an asthma patient should carry. These are medications that relax muscle bands that tighten around your airways. Basically, this treatment opens your airway and it lets more air move in and out of your lungs. This will help you breathe easier. You should not leave this item at home when you go out. It is also recommended to buy a rescue inhaler at least once a year to make sure that the medication is still effective.
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Mask
If you commute every day, it is better that you have to bring a mask with you. This helps in filtering the air you breathe. It is important that you choose the right mask for your asthma since they come in different forms. These masks can be bought in medical stores or department stores.
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Emergency Medications
When going out, always put your prescribed medicines in your bag. You have to understand that you react to different substances in the environment. Air pollution, tobacco smoke, irritants, and many allergens can trigger your asthma. Besides, you never know when emergency situations will happen. It’s better to be prepared than feel sorry later.
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Action Plan
As a person who has asthma, it is important that you know what to do during an asthma attack. So, have a talk with your physician and devise a plan that lists out the actions that you need to do when you have an asthma attack. Also, include in the plan the different remedies for different situations. Make sure that it is understandable so that other people can comprehend and follow the steps in an emergency situation.
Final Thoughts
It is critical that you have all the items listed above in your bag to avoid life-threatening situations. If you have questions regarding asthma therapy, you can visit Brazos Valley Allergy & Asthma Clinics. Dr. Paul Jantzi, the medical director, is a board-certified in allergy and immunology and provides professional services in the central Texas region. Schedule an appointment with him and let him help you with all of your allergy and asthma-related issues.