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By Mayo Clinic staffAll asthma attacks require treatment with a quick-acting (rescue) inhaler such as albuterol. One of the key steps in preventing an asthma attack is to avoid your triggers.
- If your asthma attacks seem to be set off by outside triggers, your doctor can help you learn how to minimize your exposure to them. Allergy tests can help identify your allergic triggers.
- Washing your hands frequently can help reduce your risk of catching a cold virus.
- If your asthma flares up when you exercise in the cold, it may help to cover your face with a mask or scarf until you get warmed up.
References
- Fanta CH. Treatment of acute exacerbations of asthma in adults. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Oct. 24, 2008.
- Expert panel report 3 (EPR-3): Guidelines for the diagnosis and management of asthma-Summary report 2007. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. 2008;121:1330.
- Mangan JM. What do patients need to know about their asthma? http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Oct. 24, 2008.
- Spirometry and other lung function tests fact sheet. American Lung Association. http://www.lungusa.org/site/c.dvLUK9O0E/b.43918/k.B71/Spirometry_and_Other_Lung_Function_Tests_Fact_Sheet.htm. Accessed Oct. 22, 2008.
- Questions and answers on final rule of albuterol MDI's. Food and Drug Administration. http://www.fda.gov/CDER/mdi/mdifaqs.htm. Oct. 22, 2008.