For Caregivers

Are You a Caregiver?

If someone you know has recently been diagnosed with asthma, you may be wondering how you can best support them. While you can't manage their asthma for them, your encouragement and understanding can make a meaningful difference. Here are a few ways you can help your loved one take steps toward managing their asthma.

• Learn about asthma. Take time to understand asthma, including its symptoms, common triggers, medications, and treatment options. The more you know, the better prepared you'll be to support your loved one and recognize when their symptoms may be worsening.
   
• Become familiar with their Asthma Action Plan. If your loved one has an Asthma Action Plan, learn how it works. Know what medications they take, what to do if symptoms begin to worsen, and when it's time to seek medical. If they don't have an Asthma Action Plan, encourge them to create one with their health care professional. Asthma Action Plan
   
• Encourage independence. Support your loved one in taking an active role in managing their asthma. Encouraging them to follow their treatment plan and make informed decisions can help build confidence and support long-term asthma control.
   
• Support healthy routines. Encourage your loved one to take their medications as prescribed, attend regular healthcare appointments, and keep their rescue inhaler accessible at all times.
   
• Help reduce asthma triggers. Every person with asthma has different triggers. Common triggers include tobacco smoke, wood smoke, vehicle exhaust, dust, mold, pollen, pet dander, and strong fragrances or cleaning products. Work together to identify and reduce exposure whenever possible. Some examples of potential triggers:
  • Dust and mold
  • Pet dander
  • Strong fragrances or cleaning products
  • Seasonal pollen
  • Cold air (for some individuals)
     
• Lead by example. Tobacco smoke can make asthma symptoms worse. If you smoke, consider quitting to create a healthier environment for both you and your loved one. Call the New Hampshire Quitline at 800-QUIT-NOW (784-8669) or go to https://quitnownh.org for free quit smoking help.
   
• Know the warning signs of an asthma emergency. Seek immediate medical attention if your loved one has severe difficulty breathing, cannot speak in full sentences because of shortness of breath, has blue or gray lips or fingernails, or if their rescue inhaler is not providing relief.
   
• Take care of yourself, too. Caring for someone else can be rewarding, but it can also be stressful. Make time for your own physical and mental well-being so you're better able to support your loved one.

Remember: You don't have to do it alone. Your loved one's healthcare team can answer questions and provide guidance. Learning about asthma and staying informed can help you feel more confident in your role as a caregiver.