Getting sick can be a drag, but it can cause especially serious health problems for people with asthma. Some infections can trigger the hallmark symptoms of asthma, like wheezing and coughing. Recognizing respiratory complications right away and swiftly seeking medical care for support can be critical to cutting flare-ups short and reducing health complications.
Combating Upper and Lower Respiratory Problems When You Have Asthma
Infections that affect the upper respiratory tract (sinuses, nasal tract, or throat) or lower respiratory tract (including the lungs) can exacerbate asthma symptoms and should be taken seriously because they can compromise one’s ability to breathe easily. One should consult a doctor right away if they suspect they are suffering from respiratory infection including possible:
- Cold
- RSV
- Influenza
- Pneumonia
- Sinus infection
- COVID19
- Strep
- Whooping cough
- Bronchitis
Many people who live with asthma may suffer from symptoms like congestion, sneezing, coughing, or headaches when affected with infection. These problems can negatively impact the health of someone with asthma. It is essential to identify the causes of these symptoms—and determine whether the causes are bacterial infections, viral infections, allergies, or other causes so that the right treatment can be employed and chance of negative health outcome can be reduced.
Manage Asthma When You’re Sick
In order to carry out effective management of asthma, common triggers should be addressed and there should be focus on appropriate diagnosis/management of potential illnesses since asthma can become an increasingly dangerous problem when an infection or illness descends. Any condition that exacerbates asthma symptoms can make asthma complications harder to control. It is important for someone’s breathing to be swiftly evaluated and managed. As a reminder, of course, nothing in our blog represents official medical advice.
Book an appointment with me, Dr. Maria Swetech at our Clinton Township office if you’re looking to better manage your asthma, particularly during the cold and flu season.
