The Louisiana Department of Health’s (LDH) Well-Ahead Louisiana Asthma Control Program encourages citizens with asthma to be aware of their triggers, develop a plan, and take steps to keep their asthma under control.
The month of September is typically when asthma affects peaks people of all ages. Increased coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath or nighttime symptoms, or needing a quick-relief inhaler more often may be signs that your asthma is not well controlled.
People with asthma can take steps to lower the risk of an asthma flare-up by:
Developing and following an asthma action plan. Work with your health care provider to develop a plan, and make sure family members, caregivers, and school staff know what to do if symptoms worsen.
Taking medications as prescribed. Continue daily controller medications as directed, even when asthma symptoms are under control.
Keeping quick-relief medication on hand. Make sure prescribed rescue medication is current and easily accessible at home, school, and work.
Citizens can participate in Well-Ahead’s Asthma Control Program. The program’s goal is to improve asthma control, quality of life, and health outcomes while helping reduce asthma-related emergency room visits and hospitalizations. It provides no-cost services to eligible Louisiana residents who have been diagnosed with asthma, regardless of age or insurance status.
More information about the Asthma Control Program is avabilbe at, wellaheadla.com.
