Asthma and COPD

Take your prescribed medications, including your preventative steroid inhalers regularly so any viral illnesses don’t turn into serious attacks of asthma and COPD

Follow any action plan given to you by your nurse or doctor, or get your personalised guide from Asthma & Lung UK

Stay away from things that make your symptoms worse like smoke, mould, pollen, dust or strong smells

Keep active with gentle exercises like walking, yoga and swimming to make your lungs stronger. Ask your nurse or doctor before trying new exercises

If you notice your symptoms getting worse, tell your nurse or doctor right away

Reduce the risk of developing damp and mould in your house by making sure there is good ventilation and, if necessary, a dehumidifier

Drink enough water to help thin out mucus, so it’s easier to cough it up

Eat a healthy, balanced diet to stop you becoming unwell and keep your lungs and the rest of your body healthy

Follow any action plan given to you by your nurse or doctor, or get your personalised guide from Asthma & Lung UK.

Stay away from things that make your symptoms worse like smoke, mould, pollen, dust or strong smells.

After just a few weeks, your lungs start to work better. You’ll breathe easier, cough less, and have less mucus

You’ll have less swelling in your lungs, and breathing problems like coughing and wheezing can get better

You might need to go to the hospital less often because your breathing will improve

You’ll need your inhalers and medicines less often

Your medicines will work better

You’ll have a lower chance of getting lung infections

You’ll find it easier to take part in physical activities

Quitting can slow down serious lung problems like COPD (a disease that makes it hard to breathe)

You’ll lower your risk of getting lung cancer, as well as other cancers

You will save a lot of money, which you can spend on other, more enjoyable, things

Irritate your lungs, which can lead to coughing, wheezing, and feeling out of breath

Increase the risk of infections: living with mould can make you more likely to get chest infections, which can make your breathing problems worse

Trigger allergies: mould can cause sneezing, itchy eyes, and stuffy noses, which can make it harder for you to breathe

Weaken your immune system: your body has a harder time fighting off germs and getting better from sickness

Stay active: gentle exercises like walking, yoga and swimming can make you feel happier and less stressed. Ask your doctor before starting new exercises

Go outside: if the weather is nice, try to get some fresh air and sunlight each day to help improve your mood

Talk to friends and family or join a group where you can talk to others

Practice relaxation: try deep breathing or relaxing activities like meditation to calm your min

Do fun activities: spend time on hobbies you enjoy, like art, reading or puzzles

Eat healthy and drink water: eating good food and staying hydrated helps keep you feeling well

Get enough sleep: make sure you rest and sleep enough each night

Set small goals: try to do little things each day to feel proud of yourself

Talk to your doctor: if you’re feeling really sad or worried, ask your doctor for help