Of course you want to do whatever you can to help care for a family member or friend with asthma. You may not be sure how to help. But with a little guidance, you can help your loved one manage his or her asthma.

Identify the signs of asthma and help your loved ones with asthma

Learn the warning signs and make a plan

• If your loved one is anxious, coughing, or out of breath, his or her asthma may be acting up. Find out other warning signs of asthma and the steps you should take to treat them.
• Encourage your loved one to talk to his or her doctor and create an Asthma Action Plan.

Medications and emergencies

• Learn about the asthma medications your loved one takes. Find out whether they're long-term preventatives or short-term relievers. It's also important to know the dosage and when the medication should be taken.
• Know what to do in an emergency. Find out which medications may help and how to administer them.
• If you think your loved one may be suffering a severe attack, get medical help immediately.

TLC from you

• Encourage your loved ones to take their medication as prescribed. Even when they aren't experiencing any symptoms. Asthma requires a lifelong commitment to keep symptoms at bay.
• Recommend keeping a quick-relief medication close by at all times. Like in a backpack, desk, car, or pocket so it can be found quickly.
• If your loved one's asthma is allergy related, help him or her eliminate many of the irritants that can cause asthma symptoms to act up. Learn more about asthma triggers now so you can help avoid them.

How ADVAIR helps | What is asthma? | Treating asthma | Living with asthma
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