Controlling Asthma

Medication

Rescue medications are for just that: rescue during an asthma attack (not for frequent use). Controller medications are for daily use to prevent or decrease frequent asthma attacks. Ask your doctor if a controller makes sense for your asthma, and take it as prescribed. If you have asthma, check in with your doctor at least once a year to ensure your medication continues to keep your asthma under control. 

Support Group

Your WHA health plan includes support for your asthma at no additional cost. Members with asthma have access to useful resources to help manage and control their asthma. A personal care manager provides education and creates an individualized asthma management plan based on a member's needs. To get started, contact WHA’s Member Services at 916.563.2250 (888.563.2250 toll-free) and complete an online referral form, or ask your doctor to submit a referral to the program. For more information on the asthma program, visit mywha.org/dm. 

Limit Asthma Triggers

There are all types of common asthma triggers: respiratory infections, allergens such as pollen or air pollution, and irritants such as breathing in a chemical or fragrance. Keep these tips in mind:

• When air quality is at its worst, such as when California has wildfires, stay indoors on those days and consider getting an air alert app on your smartphone.
• Try to asthma-proof your home. Dust and allergens like pet dander are common indoor triggers. Using a dust cover for your pillow, regular vacuuming, and taking up dusty rugs are some ideas to try. Air purifiers can remove most household allergens. Avoiding mold is also important.  
• Tobacco smoke is also a very powerful trigger of asthma symptoms.  And if you have asthma, you should quit smoking.  WHA’s program to help you stop smoking is covered by your plan; go online at mywha.org/quit.

Everyone is different so, learn what triggers your asthma attacks so you can try to alleviate or avoid them when possible.