Flu causes inflammation of the airways and increases the amount of mucus produced by the airway lining cells, aggravating asthma symptoms. That’s why the following measures must be taken:
- Seek advice from your doctor. Your doctor will be able to prescribe the antiviral drug that is right for you. The antiviral drug will prevent the flu from getting worse, and thus reduce exacerbations of asthma symptoms.
Rest. Say “goodbye” to work and stress for a while.
- Try over-the-counter (OTC) flu medications to improve your condition.
Drink a lot of water and other fluids.
- Keep track of your asthma symptoms. Any worsening of asthma symptoms, such as coughing, wheezing, difficulty in breathing, and chest tightness, increases the risks of an asthma attack. In such cases, you must consult with your doctor immediately to change your asthma medications.
Monitor the airflow through your lungs. You can do this by using a peak flow meter. A lower peak rate signifies that your lungs are not functioning well.
- Call your doctor if your flu symptoms get worse. Difficulty while breathing, sore throat, high fever, pneumonia, pain while breathing deeply, more frequent coughing – all indicate that your flu is worsening. This increases the risk of an asthma attack.
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