Asthma is a long-term condition, but with the right treatment and self-care, most people are able to manage it successfully and enjoy a full, active life. Managing asthma goes beyond taking your inhalers – it also involves understanding your condition, making healthy lifestyle choices, and knowing when to seek medical advice.
Everyday Self-Care for Asthma
- Take your medicines correctly – Use your preventer inhaler every day as prescribed and carry your reliever inhaler with you at all times.
- Check your inhaler technique – Incorrect technique is one of the main reasons asthma becomes poorly controlled. Ask your pharmacist, GP, or asthma nurse to review your technique regularly.
- Know your triggers – Keep track of what brings on your symptoms. For example, pollen, dust, pets, cold air, or strong perfumes may trigger asthma for some people. Avoiding or reducing exposure can make a big difference.
- Stay active – Exercise is safe and beneficial for people with asthma. Activities like walking, swimming, and cycling can help strengthen your lungs. If exercise is a trigger, use your reliever inhaler before activity (if advised).
- Maintain a healthy weight – Being overweight can make asthma harder to control. Eating a balanced diet and keeping active will help.
- Stop smoking – If you smoke, quitting is one of the most effective ways to improve your asthma and overall lung health. Avoid second-hand smoke too.
Managing Asthma at Work, School, and Travel
- Inform your employer, teachers, or carers that you have asthma. Make sure they know what to do if your symptoms worsen.
- Always carry your reliever inhaler with you when travelling.
- If travelling abroad, take enough medication with you and keep it in your hand luggage.
- Ask your GP or pharmacist for a copy of your asthma action plan to carry with you.
Vaccinations and General Health
People with asthma are advised to have:
- Annual flu vaccine – to reduce the risk of flu-related asthma complications.
- COVID-19 vaccine – as recommended by NHS guidance.
- Pneumococcal vaccine (if eligible) – to protect against pneumonia.
Keeping on top of your general health also helps reduce the chance of asthma flare-ups.
When to Seek Help
- If you notice you are using your reliever inhaler more often
- If symptoms are waking you at night
- If you are limiting daily activities due to asthma
- If your symptoms do not improve within an hour of using your reliever inhaler
Book an asthma review with your GP or asthma nurse if your asthma is not well controlled. In an emergency, call 999.
