Talking About Asthma

Even though asthma affects a large segment of the population, many people with asthma still don't understand their disease and how it can affect relationships with family, friends, and co-workers. While it's not always an easy subject to bring up, it's important that those close to you understand your condition.

Here are some tips on talking to friends, family, and co-workers about asthma:

EXPLAIN THE DISEASE AND HOW YOU'RE TREATING IT

Sometimes admitting to those around you that you have an illness is even tougher than admitting it to yourself. While you may not want to make a big deal about your asthma, it's important that your family and your co-workers take it seriously. The more everyone around you knows, the more confident they'll be in helping you.

MAKE SURE THEY KNOW WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY

Everyone close to you should understand that asthma can be life threatening and should know what to do if your asthma symptoms significantly worsen. Keep an emergency first-aid kit at home and at work in a place where people can easily find it. You may want to share your Asthma Action Plan with people you are close to, or even your co-workers.

LET PEOPLE KNOW THAT YOU'RE ALLERGIC TO PETS

If the presence of a pet means you can’t visit, let people know. Your friends may not understand how their pets can trigger your asthma. Be up front with them. If you don't tell them why you can't go to their homes, they may get the wrong impression.

EXPLAIN WHY YOU'RE OKAY ONE DAY AND NOT THE NEXT

It's the unpredictability and variability of asthma symptoms that can be hard for most people to grasp. Talk about it with your family, friends, and co-workers—so they know you’re aware of it and that you are doing everything you can to manage it.