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Asthma in the Office: How to Work Around the Condition

  • Sep 27, 2018
  • 1 min read



If you have asthma, it goes without saying that work can be a challenge. Often triggered by stress and anxiety, your symptoms can make a guest appearance when you really, really don’t need them to.


According to Asthma UK, 43% of people suffering with the respiratory condition say that their symptoms can cause them problems in the workplace. Here, we discuss three ways you can make your working day as symptom-free as possible. As for the stress? Well, that’s down to you.


Talk to colleagues

It’s important to inform the people you’re working with about your asthma. This ensures that they’ll know how to react if and when you have an asthma attack at work. So, be sure to inform your colleagues, managers and any first-aiders based at your workplace.


Remove triggers

If you know that certain triggers set your asthma off, discuss your requirements with your manager or HR personnel – they’ll make adjustments to ensure you’re comfortable. For instance, if you’re sensitive to dust, you’ll be given a well aired work space that gathers little dust.


Be prepared

Always have an inhaler with you at work, whether that means keeping one stashed in your desk drawer or in the pocket of your hi-vis jacket. You’ll be grateful if an attack strikes unexpectedly.


Image courtesy of Alvin Mahmudov, Unsplash



5 Ways to Reduce Indoor Allergens Instantly

  • Sep 27, 2018
  • 2 min read


Allergies are the medical equivalent of unexpected guests who don’t wait for an invitation, and tend to outstay their welcome. Stubborn, unforgiving and ultimately quite draining, allergies (and certain people) can have a negative impact on your life.


Indoor allergens are often responsible for many sufferers’ symptoms. You don’t have to skip through a field of flowers or work in a dusty environment to be affected by allergens, because actually, many of them are already in your home, making themselves comfortable and unlikely to leave any time soon. Remind you of anyone?


Now, we can’t do much about that neighbour who’s trying just a little too hard to be your friend, but we can do something about the other relentless presence in your home. Here, we round up five simple ways you can keep your house as allergen-free as possible.


Remove visible mold

If you’ve noticed patches of mold creeping up your basement or bathroom walls, it’s definitely time to do something about it. Mold and other fungi grow in moist, humid environments, and can be responsible for year-round allergy symptoms – so be assertive when it comes to removing dampness.


Swap your carpets

If you’re not a fan of square slates, don’t worry. You can swap your carpets for hardwood flooring in this instance. Allergens become attached to the fine fibres and are difficult to remove, while dust mites inhabit cosy, comfortable areas like carpets, curtains and other upholstery around your home.


Wash bedding frequently

Washing your bedding in hot water, and using high heat to dry it, will also help when it comes to battling it out with allergens inside the home. The high temperatures will ensure that any pesky particles will detach themselves from the material, and you can sleep easy at night. Try to clean your bed sheets and pillowcases at least once a week.


Keep pets separate

Rather than saying goodbye to your beloved companions for good, why not try keeping them restricted to a specific area or room in the house? If your dog or cat has been outside, they’re likely to return to the house with particles on their fur. Avoid having animals in your bedroom, and keep them as clean as possible.


Invest in technology

By opting for an indoor air cleaner, such as a High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) device, you’re instantly improving the quality of air in your home. Additionally, you can purchase an air quality tracker that not only detects the particles in your home, but identifies them as well. Sensio AIR is set to hit shelves next year – find out more about the innovative device here.


Sources

http://www.everydayhealth.com/allergies/dust-mite-allergies.aspx

http://www.aafa.org/page/dust-mite-allergy.aspx


Image courtesy of Peter Raimann / Pixabay



7 Do's and Don'ts for Anyone with Asthma

  • Sep 5, 2018
  • 2 min read

Updated: Sep 6, 2018



Asthma is truly debilitating at times, and we know exactly how much the respiratory condition can affect your everyday life. While some things might seem obvious when it comes to minimizing the effects asthma can have on you, some aren’t as clear.


Here, we round up seven do's and don’ts to remember when it comes to managing your condition and preventing your symptoms.


Don’t smoke

An obvious one, smoking is harmful in all situations, regardless of whether you suffer from asthma or not. However, if you do have respiratory issues, you should avoid smoke wherever possible. Whether this means kicking the habit or simply preventing people from smoking in your home or car, be sure to take the necessary steps to avoid cigarette smoke.


Do keep your home clean

Regular maintenance at home will prevent a build-up of dust, dirt and pet dander – all of which contribute to unwanted symptoms of asthma. Change your sheets regularly to avoid a dust mite invasion, and vacuum frequently (especially if you share your home with a cat or dog).


Don’t stop exercising

If you’re into fitness, try not to let your asthma get in the way of your exercise routine. If you’re new to the gym scene, don’t let it put you off trying something new. Working out is beneficial for many reasons, and it’s better to discuss your concerns with your doctor rather than quit exercising altogether.


Do prepare your own food

In order to manage your diet effectively, try to prepare your own food when and wherever possible. This will allow you to keep on top of your meals, as many pre-packaged food items contain preservatives and chemicals that could trigger an asthma attack. This also applies to those who suffer from allergies.


Don’t put off visiting your GP

This is important. If you have asthma, it’s crucial to have regular check-ups with your doctor. Don’t wait until you’re feeling extremely unwell to pick up the phone and call your GP – visit them regularly to ensure you’re doing all you can to keep your condition under control.


Do try yoga

Yoga is undeniably effective when it comes to managing stress – one of the key triggers of asthma. Practicing deep breathing and meditation techniques will aid you when it comes to controlling your stress levels, and these soothing exercises will mean you react to stressful situations in a calmer, more rational way.


Don’t forget your inhaler

Try to pack a spare inhaler in your bag, briefcase or carry-on so you’re prepared wherever you are. It might seem obvious, but it’s easy to forget – so always have one on hand to avoid panicking should you have an asthma attack away from home.




Image courtesy of Freestocks.org, Unsplash

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