Lifestyle Changes That Can Help Minimize Asthma Attacks

We get it — managing asthma can feel like an uphill battle.

At Rios Healthcare Associates in Houston and Sugar Land, Texas, we understand your asthma challenges. As experienced internal medicine specialists, Dr. Tomas Rios and Dr. Nicolin Neal work with you to develop a personalized approach that helps control your symptoms. 

Today, we’re sharing some practical lifestyle changes to complement your treatment plan and help you minimize asthma episodes. 

Purge your house of allergens

For many folks with asthma, environmental triggers like dust, mold, pet dander, and pollen can lead to severe asthma symptoms. Here’s how to reduce irritants in your living space:

• Use air purifiers with HEPA filters 
• Vacuum regularly with a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter
• Wash your bedding weekly in hot water to remove dust mites
• Minimize carpeting, which can trap allergens like dust and pet fur

Keeping indoor air clean is essential, so get your HVAC system cleaned periodically and keep windows closed during high-pollen seasons.

Manage your weight and diet 

Carrying excess weight can exacerbate asthma by restricting airflow and increasing inflammation in your body. Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the simplest ways to lessen asthma triggers. 

Eat an anti-inflammatory diet packed with fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Specifically, go for leafy greens, fatty fish, and berries to help reduce airway inflammation. Limit highly processed foods, sugary snacks, and alcohol, which can aggravate your symptoms.

We know diets aren’t one-size-fits-all. If you need guidance, we can help tailor a nutrition plan that works for you. 

Stay physically active 

Regular exercise strengthens your lungs, improves cardiovascular health, and enhances stamina — critical for people with asthma. However, choose low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or yoga, particularly when your asthma isn’t well-controlled. 

If you often experience exercise-induced asthma symptoms, ask us how a rescue inhaler or long-term asthma control medication can help you stay active. 

Get better sleep 

Not getting enough quality sleep can wreak havoc on your immune system and exacerbate asthma symptoms. To improve your sleep:

• Create a consistent sleep schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time daily
• Avoid blue light from screens at least 1-2 hours before bedtime
• Keep your bedroom dark, cool, and free of allergens 

If nighttime asthma symptoms frequently interrupt your sleep, we can reassess your treatment plan to ensure your condition stays well-managed. 

Reduce exposure to pollutants 

Outdoor air pollution, secondhand smoke, and even strong fragrances can be harmful triggers. To limit your exposure:

• Stay indoors on days with high pollution or pollen levels 
• Avoid using heavily scented cleaning products, candles, and air fresheners 
• Choose well-ventilated spaces for cooking and avoid wood-burning stoves or fireplaces 
• If you smoke, quitting significantly benefits your asthma and overall health 

We can help identify these and other environmental changes that could affect your asthma.

Manage stress 

Stress and anxiety don’t just impact mental health; they can take a significant toll on your body, including worsening your asthma symptoms. 

Incorporate stress-relief practices into your daily routine, like meditation, breathing exercises, or yoga, to help calm your mind and improve your lung function. 

If you struggle with high or chronic stress, depression, or anxiety, we can connect you with mental health professionals who can provide the support you need. 

At Rios Healthcare Associates, we take a holistic approach to managing asthma. Our dedicated care team works closely with you to develop a personalized asthma action plan tailored to your lifestyle, goals, and symptom triggers. 

If you’re ready to take your asthma management to the next level, call Rios Healthcare Associates today or request an appointment online.