IN YOUR DAILY DOSE today is research that demonstrates preventive medication can reduce the number of exacerbations of asthma students may experience in the fall months.

IN MAKING CHANGES today are strategies you can use to help reduce those exacerbations without using medication, or in combination with medication.

IN FACT OR FICTION you’ll discover that there are more spiders on this earth than you might think - both in number of species and the actual number of spiders.

In The News

In 2009, one of every twelve people had asthma. The disease affects your ability to breathe and can be fatal if not treated appropriately. People who have asthma often find they have triggers, or things to which they are exposed which increase the likelihood they will suffer an ‘attack.’

People who have problems with asthma associated with allergies will find they have an increased number of attacks during the fall and spring months when pollen is more prevalent. Researchers have now found ways to reduce the number of attacks people suffer in the fall months.

Researchers from Children’s Hospital in Colorado have been studying the use of omalizumab four to six weeks prior to school and for another four months later to prevent further exacerbations of the condition.

According to Science Daily, “Study findings indicate that preventative treatment with omalizumab does reduce fall exacerbations in a high-risk group of allergic asthma subjects. This effect was seen most notably in participants who had experienced a recent exacerbation.”

SOURCE:  http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/01/160114212448.htm

Daily Health Tip

Asthma attacks are uncomfortable, difficult to live with and can be life threatening if not under control. If you have asthma there is more you can do to help prevent exacerbation than just taking more medication.

Making Changes

1. Determine what your triggers are and try to eliminate or reduce them from your environment. Some people react to pollen, others to dust mites, pet dander or react only when they are ill.

2. Use pillow and mattress protectors to reduce your exposure to dust mites. Consider installing hardwood, tile or linoleum floors which don’t harbor dust mites. Get rid of stuffed animals.

3. If you love pets, get one that has a low allergy profile.

4. Keep your windows closed and air conditioning on during the spring and fall. Change your furnace filters every month.

5. Support your immune system by eating a well-balanced diet, low in carbohydrates and processed foods. Reduce your sugar and alcohol intake. Stop smoking. Sleep between 7.5 and 8.5 hours each night. Drink enough water to stay hydrated all day.

My Daily Affirmation

Weight management is easy for me because I have effective strategies and self-control on my side. Minor weight fluctuations of a few pounds are fine. It is normal for weight to fluctuate by a few pounds, and I accept this.

I am content with the way I look today.

Fact Or Fiction?

You might be surprised to learn the number of different species of spiders that scientists have discovered and the actual number of these little creatures running around your property.

If you don’t like them, they might all look the same. However, scientists believe there could be over 38,000 different species of spiders, with many more yet to be discovered. They are found on every continent, except Antarctica. It is estimated that 1 million of these little darlings live in one acre of land and that humans are never more than 10 feet from a spider - ever!

Have a wonderful day!

Your Healthy Life America Team