Asthma is a condition that causes the airways to become inflamed and produce extra mucus, making it difficult for one to breathe. While this condition is chronic, several methods can help manage its symptoms successfully. Here are a few ways to manage this condition better.

Foods to eat

What one eats matters a lot. Certain foods can help soothe symptoms and prevent asthma attacks. Here is what one must eat to manage the condition:

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants and a must-have for those with asthma. They contain lycopene, an antioxidant that helps clear the airways. Drinking tomato juice helps relax the airways, allowing one to breathe better.

Spinach

We all know that leafy greens are healthy. They are especially beneficial for those who have asthma. It is essential to add spinach to one’s meals, as they are full of essential vitamins like folate, which can reduce the number of asthma attacks.

Salmon

Omega 3 fatty acids present in salmon have several known benefits to alleviate symptoms of asthma. They reduce inflammation and provide one with a good amount of vitamin D, an essential vitamin that boosts immune responses to viruses triggering asthma attacks.

Foods to avoid

Avoiding certain trigger foods can help one avoid an asthma attack. According to some studies, a drastic shift from eating fresh produce like fruits and vegetables to processed foods has been linked to an increase in asthma cases. Some of these foods mentioned below may make asthma symptoms worse.

Dried fruit

A preservative called sulfite, which is usually present in dried food, can worsen the condition. Steer clear of dry fruits and opt for fresh, colorful fruits instead.

Wine

Alcoholic beverages like wine may contain sulfites that may trigger asthma symptoms. Moreover, research suggests that histamines present in wine may also exacerbate symptoms of asthma.

Foods that cause allergies

It is essential to avoid eating foods that one is allergic to, as it can cause wheezing and even lead to an asthma attack.

Lifestyle changes

Stress can trigger asthma symptoms or even cause an attack. Therefore, it is very important to learn how to calm down and reduce stress levels. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight and getting adequate sleep can also improve symptoms. If one smokes, quitting the habit could significantly improve the condition.

Yoga and self-care

Yoga is an effective home remedy to manage asthma. Those who practiced yoga poses and breathing exercises experienced fewer attacks, responded better to medication, and had improved blood flow. Meditation also helps keep the mind calm and manage symptoms effectively. There are various self-care apps that provide effective guided meditation for asthma.

Medication

A doctor may prescribe medication depending on the triggers, severity of the condition, and age. Different types and forms of medication, including long-term, short-term, and instant relief, can help manage asthma. Inhalers and oral medication can be used for the long term and short term. When an attack occurs, instant relief medication can help relax the airways and bring breathing back to normal.

Eliminate triggers

Knowing the triggers and eliminating them can be very helpful when it comes to managing severe asthma. The common irritants are pet dander, smoke, dust mites, and strong scent. Vacuuming the house regularly, using an air filter, avoiding secondhand smoke, and checking forecasts before traveling can help manage the condition better.