For the asthma sufferer, the winter months can present several concerns. A decreased ability to exercise due to the lower temperatures, which is important to improving lung capacity, and poor air quality are just some of the triggers that present themselves during this part of the year. Knowing how to prepare and protect yourself during the winter is vital to your health. Make sure you know what to do.

Get Your Flu Shot

It's important that you get a flu shot to protect yourself from the influenza virus. Some people overlook the shot since an asthma diagnoses doesn't place you at an increased risk of contracting the virus. However, the problem is that the flu virus can be more challenging and serious for someone who suffers from asthma.

The virus can cause greater inflammation within your lungs and airways, which will only exaggerate your symptoms and increase your risk for pneumonia. It's generally recommend that asthma suffers avoid the nasal mist, since it contains the live virus, and have a flu shot instead.

Stay Current With Medications

The winter is often a busy time of the year for most people. In addition to regular personal and professional obligations, the average person is also prepping their home for holiday guests, shopping for gifts, and taking on extra tasks at work to prepare for time off.

With all this hustle and bustle, make sure you aren't forgetting to stay on track with your medications. Particularly when it comes to asthma-control inhalers like Aerospan RX, regular use is the only way for the medication to be effective.

Be Careful With Campfires

A fond part of winter is sitting outside by a campfire and making smores or nestling up next to a fireplace with a cup of homemade cocoa. While you can still enjoy these activities, you want to do so with caution. When you're close to the fire, particles from the smoke can irritate your air passages and lungs, causing swelling.

For someone with asthma, this can trigger breathing difficulties and an attack. If you're going to be near any burning wood, it's best to keep some distance between yourself and the flame. If it's a large fire, with smoke encompassing a large area, it may be best to stay away.

Remember, you play the most important role in your healthcare. Make sure you are staying on top of your asthma all winter long to protect your health and avoid a dangerous attack.