Breathe easy

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My cousin was in Class VII when he first discovered that he was suffering from respiratory problems which occurred mostly during change of season. After a thorough examination, seasonal asthma was diagnosed as a cause of his suffering.

After more than 10 years of suffering, he has conquered asthma with a few precautions and is leading a normal life. He says ``precautions and proper medication are the two keys to cure''. Here is his list of do's and don't.

Balance your emotions as stress and anxiety could lead to frequent attacks of cough, especially during change of season.

Get some fresh air during an attack and drink a little water after the attack has subsided.

During summers, try and cover your face with a moist cloth as a precaution against dust and smoke.

Keep your distance from vehicles emitting black smoke.

Avoid taking a walk in gardens full of flowers as flying pollen grains are harmful for asthma patients and could cause bronchitis.

Avoid dusting. Instead, use vacuum cleaners. Get rid of all carpets in summers.

Try and keep windows closed and instal exhaust fans.

Find out the food you are allergic to and avoid consuming it.

Consume plenty of leafy vegetables and drink a lot of water. Meat and excess fat could instigate allergy and phlegm which obstructs the respiratory track.

Avoid deep fried food, drinking and smoking.

Avoid strong fragrances.

Exercise regularly and do deep breathing.

Patients should visit the allergy clinic held once a week at PGI, Chandigarh.

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