23 Feb Understanding Asthma and How Our In-Home Caretakers Can Help | Family Tree In-Home Care
Asthma is a common respiratory diagnosis and is especially common in elders. Many of us think of it as an illness that develops in childhood, but it can occur at any time in life.
What Is Asthma?
Asthma is caused by swelling in the bronchial tubes in the throat. Though it is a chronic illness, it is very treatable through the right medication and care. Individuals with asthma may experience trouble breathing, coughing and wheezing, and sensations of tightness in the chest. Pursuing preventative measures, such as avoiding overexertion and irritants in the air, alongside the right medication regimen (which often includes an inhaler or a nebulizer in more severe cases) will allow your loved one to live comfortably with asthma.
Elderly woman breathing through a nebulizer during home care.
What Does an Attack Look Like?
Asthma attacks can prove frightening experiences for individuals and those close to them, but with the right treatment, these attacks can be assuaged or even prevented. An attack’s symptoms resemble those of regular asthma, but are more extreme in nature. Such symptoms can include intense wheezing, uncontrollable coughing, and pain in the chest. If severe enough, these attacks can lead to hospitalization.
In general, the correct care and treatment are key to dealing with and preventing future attacks. Our in-home caretakers will stay alert to the warning signs of an attack, and intervene with the treatment and care your loved one needs. If an attack does occur, our caretakers will be there by your loved one’s side the entire time, helping them take their emergency medication, guiding them through breathing exercises, as well as providing the comfort and companionship they need during this time.
Our Caretakers at Family Tree In-Home Care Are Here to Help
Our caretakers have the extensive experience needed to treat your loved one. They will help your loved ones take their medications, including inhalers and nebulizers if needed. With a Family Tree In-Home caretaker, you can rest assured that your loved one with asthma will always be cared for, and will never have to deal with their diagnosis alone.
Learn more about how our caretakers help elders with asthma and other illnesses, and learn how our in-home care services can work with you and your family’s needs.