As we head into October, flu season is right around the corner. For those with chronic lung conditions like asthma, the flu can be more than a minor inconvenience. Beyond typical symptoms like fever, chills and aches, the flu can also wreak havoc on your respiratory system and trigger asthma attacks and other complications.
If you or someone you care for has asthma, protecting yourself from the flu is a top priority. Let’s dive into how the flu can affect asthma patients and actionable tips to keep your lungs safe this flu season.
How the Flu Impacts Asthma
Asthma patients already have sensitive airways, and the flu virus can irritate them even more. When you catch the flu, your body launches an immune response that causes inflammation in the lungs and airways. For people with asthma, this increased inflammation may lead to:
- Increased asthma symptoms: Inflammation and narrowing of the airways can exacerbate asthma symptoms like shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness and coughing.
- Asthma attacks: In severe cases, inflammation from the flu can trigger dangerous asthma attacks that require medical attention.
- Bronchospasm: This is when muscles around the airways constrict, making it harder to get air in and out of the lungs.
- Asthma attacks: In severe cases, inflammation from the flu can trigger dangerous asthma attacks that require medical attention.
- Pneumonia: Asthma patients are more susceptible to developing flu complications like pneumonia, a dangerous lung infection that can land you in the hospital.
But don’t panic—there are plenty of ways to shield yourself from the flu and reduce the risk of asthma complications.
Flu Protection for Asthma Patients
- Get Vaccinated
The flu vaccine is your best defense against the flu. Even if it doesn’t completely prevent the flu, it can significantly reduce the severity of symptoms and lower your risk of complications. Check with your healthcare provider to ensure the vaccine is safe for your specific asthma treatment plan. - Practice Good Respiratory Hygiene
If you do catch the flu, minimize its impact by practicing good hygiene. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue (or your elbow) when coughing or sneezing, and dispose of used tissues immediately. This reduces the chance of spreading the virus to others and helps keep your environment safe. - Avoid Close Contact with Sick People
The flu spreads like wildfire, especially in close quarters. Keep your distance from people who are coughing or showing flu symptoms, and if you’re feeling under the weather, stay home to avoid passing it on to others. - Use Respiratory Medications as Prescribed
Having asthma means following a treatment plan, and it’s essential to stick to it during flu season. This includes maintenance medications like inhaled corticosteroids or beta antagonists that are administered through a nebulizer. Keep your rescue inhaler close and use it as directed by your doctor. If the flu worsens your symptoms, don’t hesitate to consult your healthcare provider for adjustments to your medication. - Manage Allergies
Asthma and allergies are closely connected, and uncontrolled allergies can trigger and worsen asthma symptoms. If you have allergies, prioritize control during flu season and consider immunotherapy through our sublingual allergy drops for lasting relief.
Stay Healthy with America’s Best Care Plus
Asthma and the flu don’t mix well, but with a little preparation, you can protect yourself from complications. At America’s Best Care Plus, we’re here to help you manage your asthma and stay ahead of flu season with our reliable respiratory supply program. We offer nine respiratory medications, nebulizer kits and accessories delivered right to your door to help control your asthma with convenience. Visit us online and contact our team to learn more and join our respiratory supply program today!