Asthma may be easier to control than previously believed

If you suffer from asthma then you know that controlling the condition is the key to ensuring good quality of life. Now, scientists have come up with a bunch of tips and to help you do just that.

Allergist James Sublett, MD, at the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI), said that patients were prone to hospitalization because they weren't aware of simple measures that can asthma under control. He added that sufferers are also not aware that uncontrolled asthma is dangerous and far costlier.

ACAAI has put together this list of facts to help you understand how you can not only achieve better outcomes with your asthma, but also start breathing easier.

Asthma sufferers may not realize that getting their symptoms under control can improve their overall health. Controlled asthma means:

No or fewer asthma symptoms even at night or after exercise.

Prevention of all or most asthma attacks.

Participation in all activities, including exercise.

No emergency room visits or hospital stays.

Less need for quick-relief medicines.

Minimize side effects from asthma medications.

Immunotherapy (allergy shots) can reduce sensitivity to the allergens that trigger asthma attacks and significantly reduce the severity of the disease. It might even prevent the development of asthma in some children with seasonal allergies.

Asthma is a complex condition, and exists in a variety of forms, including allergic asthma, exercise-induced asthma and work-related asthma. Each type can have different symptoms and triggers, and each requires a different approach to diagnosis and treatment. Similarly, each patient also has a different set of symptoms and triggers, which sets off an asthma attack.

According to the newly updated ACAAI Asthma Management and the Allergist: Better Outcomes at Lower Cost, asthma care provided by allergists is associated with better patient outcomes across a range of important markers.