Illness and Asthma
If you have asthma, a cold or flu can amplify your symptoms greatly by increasing the inflammation in your airways. Even mild asthma sufferers have a higher risk of developing complications from the flu, which can lead to other serious respiratory issues such as pneumonia.
If your asthma begins to flare when you are sick, call your doctor and follow your Asthma Action Plan. Monitor your airflow and seek help right away for severe symptoms.
Did you know?
Adults and children with asthma are more likely to develop pneumonia after getting sick with the flu than people who do not have asthma.
Illness
Certain viral infections can wreak havoc on asthma sufferers because they specifically affect the respiratory tract. This can cause already impaired lung function to get worse and swollen airways to become more inflamed, which can result in hospitalization.
Vaccination
If you have asthma, strongly consider staying up-to-date on all your vaccinations. Your doctor can recommend which vaccines may be right for you; for example, a flu shot and/or a pneumococcal vaccine. Vaccinations are now available at doctors offices, pharmacies, workplaces, community health clinics, health departments and other locations.
Tips for Managing an Illness & Asthma
Keep your vaccinations up-to-date
Monitor your airflow with a peak flow meter if your doctor has recommended it
Stay home and rest
Call your doctor if asthma symptoms worsen during illness
