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Testing, Testing 123: Phlebotomy Basics

When my mother underwent chemotherapy, we spent a lot of time visiting the phlebotomy lab for blood testing. I was always impressed by how easily the phlebotomist was able to find and puncture a vein to draw blood on the first try. I knew there had to be a method to it, and was astounded by how effortless and painless they made the process. It led me to research a lot about blood tests, from drawing to the actual screening. I've created this site to share what I've learned in the hopes of teaching others. The more you understand, the more control you can have over your own health care.

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Testing, Testing 123: Phlebotomy Basics

Managing Your Asthma During A Difficult Seasonal Allergy Season

by Francisco Arnold

While asthma and allergies are not the same thing, asthma can be triggered by allergies that you have. When you are experiencing itchy eyes, a runny nose or watery eyes because of seasonal allergies, you may also discover that your asthma is more difficult to control. Asthma can be triggered by allergens, cold air, an infection, problems with reflux, heavy exercise and even stress. Once you identify that allergens are making your asthma worse, better management of your allergies should help your asthma. Managing asthma takes time and some investigation. When you work with an asthma specialist, you will get the guidance you need to gain better control over your asthma symptoms.

Protect Yourself During High Pollen Counts

If you have seasonal allergies to pollen, you can check pollen counts in your area to see if it is a day you will need added protection. When the pollen counts are high, you may need to spend more time indoors than you would like to. While the spring is a great time to be outdoors, this can make your asthma worse when you have seasonal allergies. Wash your hands when you get back inside, drink plenty of water, and wear long sleeves when you are outside.

Manage Your Other Triggers

When allergies are one trigger for your asthma, you also have to pay attention to your other triggers. If stress is a factor, try to keep your stress levels managed. When heavy exercise makes your symptoms worse, avoid heavy exercise that is outdoors when you can. Working out will help your overall fitness, just make sure you are working out in a gym instead during times of high pollen counts. To better manage your asthma, you have to get each one of your triggers in control.

Visiting an Asthma Specialist

There will be times that no matter what you do, your asthma is going to flare up. When you work with an asthma specialist, you will have professional that looks over your symptoms and strategies in order to help you plan a better management strategy. You will have access to medication, and have a specialist focused on your specific set of symptoms.

Managing asthma can be difficult, especially when yours is triggered by seasonal allergies. Learn about your triggers and pay attention to pollen counts. Pay attention to your symptoms and work with an allergy specialist when you need to in order to get your symptoms under control.

Contact a center like The Regional Allergy Asthma & Immunology Center, PC to learn more.

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