Nurses Corner: May 2017

TIS THE SEASON FOR ALLERGIES AND ASTHMA!

We are now in pollen season!  We see this on our cars and feel it in our bodies. Many of us have runny noses, itchy, and watery eyes. For those of us with asthma, though, we may start to have increase in our asthma symptoms; tightness in chest, coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. Also be aware that some of us may experience rapid onset of asthma symptoms right before a thunderstorm. The pollen and mold spores are kicked up with the wind and there is a drastic rise in our triggers. Pay close attention to your breathing and treat your symptoms as directed by your doctor.

You need to make sure you carry your quick acting inhalers when out and about, so it can be used immediately when symptoms start. Also, for those taking daily controllers, follow the physicians’ instructions. Make sure you know how to use your inhaler properly; most of us have never been taught proper use of the inhalers (check with your physician or pharmacist for proper use). Also, make sure we are taking to take the prescribed allergy medicines so that the allergy symptoms that trigger our asthma symptoms can be controlled. If you are outside and have pollen allergies, make sure you take a shower or bath to remove the pollen. This might decrease the asthma symptoms.

This monthly feature is courtesy of our Parish Nurse Ministry.