TODAY is World Asthma Day – a day dedicated to raising awareness of the condition.
Around 300 million people suffer from asthma in some form across the world.
There are also around 250,000 deaths every year linked to the disease.
Although most other diseases are becoming less common, the cases of asthma is continuing to increase - with the number thought to hit 400 million by 2025.
However with the right treatment, most people with asthma are able to live normal lives.
Here are some simple tips to help you keep symptoms under control.
Take medication regularly and properly
It's important to take any prescribed medication regularly, as this can help keep your symptoms under control and prevent severe asthma attacks.
It's also important to use any inhalers and spacers you may have been prescribed properly. Make sure your GP or practice nurse shows you how to use your inhalers correctly.
Speak to your doctor or asthma nurse if you have any concerns about the medication you're taking, or if you're experiencing any side effects.
Stop smoking
If you have asthma and you smoke, stopping smoking can significantly reduce how severe and frequent your symptoms are.
If you think you need help to stop smoking, you can contact NHS Smokefree for free advice and support.
You may also want to talk to your GP about the stop smoking medications available.
Exercise regularly
Exercising regularly is as important for people with asthma as everyone else.
Aim to do at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity a week, such as fast walking or cycling.
Although exercise can sometimes trigger your symptoms, this shouldn't happen once you're on appropriate treatment.
Eat healthily
Most people with asthma can eat a normal, healthy diet.
Along with regular exercise, this can help you maintain a healthy weight, which may help keep your asthma symptoms under control, as well as reduce your risk of other health problems.
Some people may have food allergies that trigger their symptoms and will need to avoid these foods, but this is uncommon.
Know your triggers
It's important to identify possible asthma triggers by making a note of where you are and what you're doing when your symptoms get worse.
Some triggers, such as air pollution, illnesses and certain weather conditions, can be hard to avoid.
But it may be possible to avoid other triggers, such as dust mites, fungal spores, pet fur and certain medications.
Get vaccinated
Certain infections can trigger your symptoms if you have asthma.
Everyone with asthma is encouraged to have the annual flu jab and the one-off pneumococcal vaccination.
You can get these vaccinations at your GP surgery or a local pharmacy that offers a vaccination service.
Getting a good night's sleep
Asthma symptoms are often worse at night. You might wake up some nights coughing or with a tight chest.
If your child has asthma, poor sleep can affect their behaviour and concentration, as well as their ability to learn.
Find out more about asthma and treatments on the NHS website here.
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