| |
Travelling
Travelling can still be fun and enjoyable even if you have asthma.
Here are some useful tips:
- Visit your doctor for a check-up several weeks before your trip to check if you are fit to travel. This gives you the assurance that your asthma is under control with your current medication.
- Make sure you bring more than enough medication
for the entire trip, in case of delays.
- Do not check-in all your medication as your
luggage may get lost.
- Have a list of your medication with a translation
in the language of the country you are visiting. Be aware that the
same medication may be sold under another name in a different country.
- When you arrive at your destination, note down the name and telephone number of the nearest doctor and hospital.
- Do not tire or stress yourself too much during the trip. Get enough rest.
Pregnancy
Having asthma should not stop a woman from becoming pregnant and having a healthy normal baby.
- Inform your obstetrician and your family doctor that you are pregnant and all the medications that you are taking.
- Ensure that you take your asthma medication regularly according to your doctor’s advice. Medications used commonly for asthma such as inhaled bronchodilators, inhaled steroids, and short courses of prednisolone are generally safe in pregnancy.
Exercise
For patients with asthma, keeping fit is important.
- Increase your fitness by exercising regularly.
- Exercise regularly as long as your asthma is well controlled.
- Use your ‘reliever’ inhaler
15-20 minutes before exercise.
- Do ‘warm-ups’ before you
start strenuous activity and ‘cool down’ after your
exercise.
- Choose a type of exercise or sport that suits your age and medical condition.
- Consult your doctor before starting on an
exercise programme.
|
