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Asthma triggers: infection
When you have asthma, any infection--a cold, the flu--can affect the lungs, causing inflammation and constricting airways. It is important to take measures to stay healthy and be aware of any lung symptoms, even mild, so that you can avoid an asthma attack.
- Sinus problems can trigger asthma episodes, so pay attention to symptoms and seek treatment promptly.
- Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider about getting a flu shot every year, and get the pneumonia vaccine if you have not had one.
- If friends have cold or flu symptoms, ask them not to visit until they are feeling well. If possible, try to stay away from large crowds in the fall and winter when the flu season is at its peak.
- Wash your hands with soap and warm water, especially before preparing food, eating, and taking medications or breathing treatments and after coughing or sneezing, using the bathroom, touching soiled linens or clothing, and spending time with someone with a cold or the flu.
- Keep breathing equipment used to treat asthma clean. Do not let others use your medical equipment.
Call your doctor if you experience symptoms of an infection, including shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing up increased amounts of mucus, yellow or green mucus, fever (temperature over 101°F) or chills, increased fatigue or weakness, sore or scratchy throat, sinus drainage, nasal congestion, headaches, and tenderness along upper cheekbones.
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