10 Things to Consider for Older Asthmatics During Winters
Unlike asthma signs and symptoms in younger people, in older patients, they hardly ever go into remission and can be a serious condition. That is why seniors need to take necessary precautions, especially during winters when cold, flu, and allergy are on the rise, and can aggravate an asthma episode.
Here are the 10 Things to Keep in Mind
According to the ACCAI, there are several types of asthma, including occupational, allergic and non-allergic asthma. In older people, asthma can go undetected and untreated, often confused with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Since elderly asthmatics are most susceptible to asthma triggers in winters, these points should always be kept in mind:
Wash Hands Properly
Maintaining proper hygiene standards by frequently and properly washing hands with soap is essential. It can help avoid contracting cold and other viruses, which can worsen an asthma attack. Alcohol-based hand sanitisers can also do the trick.
Get Vaccinated
Winter is that time of the year when flu and cold can spread due to moisture in the air. That is why older people need to get an annual flu shot as flu can result in complications even if your asthma signs and symptoms are under control in normal circumstances.
Manage Stress Effectively
Stress and anxiety are considered one of the many triggers of asthma that can result in breathing problems and worsen asthma signs and symptoms. Regardless of the season, senior asthma patients should avoid stress or effectively manage it. Some effective ways to manage stress are: practising relaxation exercises, getting enough sleep and identifying and avoiding situations that trigger stress and anxiety.
Avoid Electric Blowers
Cold air is one of the most common triggers of asthma, which makes it imperative for senior asthmatics to have heaters in their homes. Avoid using fan-forced ducted heaters since they can circulate dust and dander around the house when used after a long time. On the other hand, electric heaters, including panel, radiant or hydronic heaters, are generally considered safe to use since they do not emit or circulate smoke, gasses or dust.
Prevent Asthma Flares
Old people should take a preventive dose of asthma before running usual errands, particularly in winters. Asthma Inhalers are the best way to open the airways and give extra protection during winters. Always carry an inhaler before stepping out of the house.
Have an Action Plan
Regardless of the season, seniors should have an elaborate plan on what to do in case the asthma signs and symptoms flare up. It is essential to know the triggers and how to avoid them in the first place.
Watch What You Eat
Some foods can aggravate breathing problems. Therefore, a focus on your diet is important, especially for seniors with asthma. For instance, citrus foods like lemon and oranges, cold dairy products such as milk and yoghurt, and chemical preservatives like sodium sulfite can worsen asthma signs and symptoms. Instead, increase the intake of foods like garlic, ginger, turmeric, berries, nuts and flax seeds, along with foods rich in vitamin A, C and D.
Stay Hydrated
Having hot water in winters in the form of green tea, ginger honey concoction, and vegetable soup can keep asthma symptoms at bay. That's because hot beverages can loosen the mucus and prevent congestion in the chest.
Take Timely Medication
Asthma in seniors can be complicated if the patient has comorbidities. Go for regular checkups and religiously follow your treatment. If asthma worsens during the cold weather, it might be time to ask your doctor to change your medication.
Exercise Indoors
In icy weather conditions, it is better to exercise indoors to avoid catching a cold. Always warm up before the start of your routine and cool down afterwards. As exercises increase the body's demand for oxygen, asthmatics, especially seniors, should always carry asthma inhalers during exercises.
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