One of the most important parts of asthma management is the development of an asthma action plan by the asthmatic along with their parent (if it is a child) together with their physician. The action plan helps the asthmatic immediately recognize symptoms and flare-ups and also gives clear instructions on what to do when the situation arises.
Every person reacts differently to different triggers. Each asthmatic varies in terms of asthma attack severity levels. For this reason, asthma action plans are customized for each asthmatic. There are a lot of factors to be considered; asthma history is one. To be able to have an effective action plan, a visit to the doctor is required. The doctor needs information such as asthma background, then will personalize an action plan that will only fit the patient.
Asthma action plans are based on peak expiratory flow readings. The goal is to give a little ease of mind. Action plans contain information as to the asthma, when it should be taken note of, preventive actions, as well as courses of actions to take depending on asthma severity. While each action plan is different, there lies the same basic feature. Some action plans are written by the doctor while some are card templates with which the doctors simply fill out. Regardless of how it is delivered, asthma action plans are specified only to the individual. Using it as basis for other asthmatics may do more harm than good.
Since peak flow reading employ the traffic light system, asthma action plans do as well. Indicated colors move from green for “under control” to red for “emergency” with their corresponding steps on what to do for each color. Steps can be varied. They can range from “continue with existing medication” to “call an ambulance”.
It would also be advisable if the peak expiratory flow can be included in the action plan for those who have difficult-to-control conditions. It is also important that when the PEF is included that the values should be based on the asthmatics personal best rather than predicted values.
An action plan can save an asthmatics life when things go bad. Asthmatics that carry their action plans can show them to strangers so they can be assisted when they could barely speak due to an asthma attack. Having asthma does not mean you cannot enjoy life. Just keep following the asthma action plan, and keep it under control; which is what it’s all about. Once asthma is under control, the asthmatic can go on living normal lives.
Johnson Star was a former asthmatic past 20 years. For more detailed information, tips and advice on asthma attack treatment, be sure to go to http://www.17minasthmaandallergysecrets.com if you want to get rid of asthma and allergy once by subscribing to his 10-day FREE mini-ecourse right now.