How to prevent a cold from progressing to asthma
March 6, 2007 by Grace Ibay
Filed under Diseases & Conditions
A previous post prompted a scurry of web searches in my quest to prevent my cold-susceptible daugther from developing asthma later on in life.
Thank goodness there are plenty of advice. The Mayo Clinic posts this action plan here.
- 1. Call your doctor immediately if you think you have the flu. Antiviral medications must be taken within 24-48 hours after the start of a flu.
- 2. Take good care of yourself. Rest. Drink plenty of fluids.
- 3. Pay close attention to your asthma symptoms. If you notice warning signs of an asthma attack — such as coughing, wheezing, chest tightness or shortness of breath — adjust your medication as directed by your doctor. Quick action can help prevent a severe attack.
- 4. Monitor your airflow. Use a peak flow meter to monitor how well your lungs are working from day to day. Take your readings at the same time every day. If you notice a drop in your peak flow rate, adjust your medication as directed by your doctor.
- 5. Know when your illness is something more serious. Seek medical care if you have trouble breathing of if your throat is extremely sore. Also get quick medical attention if you have any signs of pneumonia, such as a high fever, sharp pain when taking deep breaths or a cough bringing up phlegm.
- 6. Think prevention. When you’re feeling better, do your best to stay that way. Eat a healthy diet, get plenty of sleep and exercise regularly. Ask your doctor about a yearly flu shot, as well as the pneumonia vaccine. Wash your hands often, and avoid contact with anyone who’s sick.
A professor of pediatrics also adviced that using an oral anti-inflammatory medication (oral corticosteroid)when a cough from a cold appears, is effective in preventing asthma compliations and hospitalizations.
Tags: influenza, flu, colds, viruses, diseases, illness, health, medicine, viral respiratory, pediatrics
