Having asthma changes how people live. Maybe you can't keep your windows open anymore, even on a beautiful day. Maybe you will begin to wheeze or cough while trying to talk to someone. Maybe you will need to say no when your child begs for a dog or a cat. Not being able to breathe means you cannot do some of the things you used to take for granted every day: walking to the store, doing chores, working, and sleeping. This can certainly make you feel sad, frustrated, or even angry.

With a little planning, you can make your chores easier to do and enjoy some of the things you like to do again.

The most important thing, as you probably already guessed, is to quit smoking if you currently smoke. It's also a good idea to stay away from other people who smoke. These things can irritate your lungs and cause an asthma attack.

If you have asthma, you should try to stay at a normal weight for your body type. Being overweight can make asthma symptoms worse. It also puts you at a greater risk of getting other health problems.

The flu can also cause serious problems if you have asthma. Flu shots and pneumonia vaccines may help lower your risk of infections that can cause asthma attacks.

Partner with your healthcare provider to:

• Follow the asthma action plan that you created together
• Make sure you monitor and record your breathing on your peak flow meter
• Learn how to identify and treat attacks early to avoid a more severe attack
• Always take your medicines as prescribed
• Keep track of the number of times you use your quick-relief medicine

Try to keep away from things in your environment, both inside and outside, that may make your asthma worse. Some steps to avoid triggers include:

• Using air conditioning whenever you can to reduce the amount of pollen finding its way indoors, and staying indoors on high-pollen days
• Using a dehumidifier if you live in a damp climate
• Preventing mold by cleaning damp areas in your bathroom and kitchen; getting rid of damp firewood and moldy leaves in the yard
• Keeping your house clean and dust-free; removing carpeting and installing hardwood or linoleum flooring instead, if possible
• Wearing a scarf over your nose and mouth when it's cold outside
• Lowering the amount of pet fur in your house, especially if you are allergic

• Create an exercise plan to get in a workout a few times a week. This can strengthen your heart and lungs and help relieve symptoms
• Work with your healthcare provider to control heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). They can hurt your lung airways and make your asthma symptoms worse

And, above all, remember to call your healthcare provider if your symptoms worsen!