Children with asthma symptoms that are not under control are at a greater risk for various negative health conditions, including a lower level of cardiovascular fitness, a higher prevalence of obesity, and the onset of cognitive difficulties. In addition, studies have shown that individuals with asthma symptoms that are not well managed are more prone to suffer from depression and poor focus. Talk to your primary care physician about appropriately adjusting your asthma medication.
6 Ways To Know If You Have Uncontrolled Asthma
Having Symptoms More Than Twice A Week
According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, an individual’s asthma is considered well-treated if symptoms do not occur more than twice per week.
Wheezing and other asthma symptoms that occur more than twice a week are indicators of poorly controlled asthma and indicate the necessity for a visit to the doctor.
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Coughing At Night
Patients who suffer from asthma often struggle to breathe at all times of the day, but attacks that occur during the night are especially problematic.
When we are sleeping, our airways become somewhat more constricted than when we are awake. If you have been coughing throughout the night or early in the morning more than twice a month, your current asthma medication may not be effective for you.
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Using Rescue Medications More Than Twice A Week
Asthma patients have access to fast relief from the symptoms of an asthma attack via quick-relief medicines, also often referred to as “rescue treatments.”
If you find yourself needing respite from your asthma symptoms more than twice a week, this is a sign that your treatment plan needs to be modified.
Frequent Oral Corticosteroid Use
Oral corticosteroids such as prednisone may be prescribed as rescue medication for patients with more severe asthma episodes.
When utilizing these steroids, it is usual for users to have brief “bursts” lasting anywhere from five days to two weeks. If you need oral steroid bursts more often than once or twice a year, this may be an indication that your asthma is not well controlled.
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Your Peak Flow Measurements Are Lower
A peak flow meter may diagnose asthma in the same manner that a thermometer may diagnose a fever. Both serve as proxies for underlying physiological processes.
If your peak flow values are much lower than normal by more than 15 percentage points, it is conceivable that you have nocturnal asthma. The presence of asthma symptoms throughout the night is a warning sign of inadequate asthma management.
You’re Getting Out Less
When your asthma symptoms become so severe that they prohibit you from enjoying life as you normally would, it is time to schedule an appointment with your primary care physician.
Because the stress of uncontrolled asthma symptoms may make day-to-day life difficult and lead to serious health repercussions, it is necessary to assess the effectiveness of your medication with a doctor.
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The Dangers Of Uncontrolled Asthma
Children who do not get treatment for their asthma symptoms are more likely to be overweight, have cognitive issues developing, and have poor cardiovascular fitness, to name just a few of the negative health consequences that may be found in this population.
Adults who have difficulty keeping their asthma under control have an increased risk of mental health concerns, including depression and attention deficit disorder (ADD).
If you suffer from asthma, you should discuss the possibility of having your prescription modified with your primary care physician.
