If you have an asthma allergy in Buffalo, NY, you’re not significantly more likely to come down with the flu or even the common cold than the rest of us. However, because you already suffer from inflammation, even a simple virus could put you at risk for serious respiratory diseases.
Avoiding the Flu:
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs usually caused by fungi, viruses, or bacteria. A debilitating disease, pneumonia can have you stuck in bed exhausted for a month or more coughing away. While the condition isn’t a cause of pneumonia, anyone with an asthma allergy in Buffalo, NY should be aware that if your air passageways are already inflamed, even a simple virus could put you at risk.
Plus, the oral steroids often prescribed to asthmatic patients are known to weaken the immune system. While you shouldn’t stop using your inhaler, be aware that if you use it while fighting a cold or flu, you could be significantly raising your chances of developing pneumonia.
What Else Can I Do To Protect Myself if I Have an Asthma Allergy in Buffalo, NY?
- Get Your Flu Shot:
- Flu shots don’t protect against every strain of the flu, but getting your flu shot in October or November can help significantly decrease the chance you’ll catch the flu over the cold winter months.
- Keep Your Inhaler and Any Medication With You:
- Keep asthma attacks under control by taking any medication as directed and keeping your inhaler with you at all times in case of an attack.
- Lather Up!:
- This one should be an obvious one, but you should make sure that you’re washing your hands as often as possible during flu season. Before you eat and after you go to the bathroom for sure, but you should also be washing your hands after leaving crowded spaces.
Make Sure to Call A Medical Professional Immediately if You Suffer From an Asthma Allergy in Buffalo, NY and Come Down With the Flu!
There might be nothing to worry about, but then again, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. If you suffer from an asthma allergy in Buffalo, NY, don’t hesitate to call your local ENT to let them know you might have the flu. Your physician can help you keep your symptoms at bay and give you advice should your symptoms start to worsen.