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Chronic conditions dont stop for a global health crisis.
Adobe Stock / bydvvid
Far too many people have to rely on emergency care for their asthma.
But tons of people arent able to afford those medications or the insurance that would help cover them.
(The study results represented five-year averages.)
That included being unable to afford medications or to see a specialist or primary care physician.
These are not like regular checkup appointments.
How does COVID-19 affect people with asthma?
Asthma symptoms likecoughing, wheezing, andchest tightnesshappen when something triggers the airways in your lungs to become inflamed.
Some of the symptoms of an asthma attack and COVID-19 are similar, notablyshortness of breathandcoughing.
it’s possible for you to read potential relationship between asthma and COVID-19 here.
First, see if you might get a prescription for asthma medication.
Experts are even recommending stocking up on a three-month supply if it’s possible for you to.
So the first thing you need is a prescription for asthma medication.
You may be able to get one online.
You could also try calling a local pharmacy.
Everything is very different right now, she says.
See if there are any ways to make your medication cheaper.
after you grab a prescription, Dr. Chinthrajah recommends looking updrugassistance programs that help the uninsured and underinsured.
The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America lists exampleshere, including toll-free numbers to call.
you could also compare drug prices on sites likeCostcoandGoodRxthose are just two examples.
Often there are coupons that can make the drugs cheaper.
Many hospitals also offer ways to get subsidized medications through their pharmacies, Dr. Cohn says.
That includes not substituting long-term medication for rescue medication, or vice versa.
If you dont have an asthma action plan, create one.
We need patients to become their own asthma detectives, she says.
take a stab at be really diligent about reducing your risk of getting COVID-19.
I don’t want to tell people, just stay home, Goodman says.
Minimize your asthma attack risk in other ways.
These include dust mites, cockroaches and their droppings, pet dander, and mold, theCDCsays.
Still go to the E.R.
if youre having an asthma attack.
you could and should still go to the E.R.
for a non-coronavirus emergency thats possibly life-threatening.
But many health care professionals are trying to help.
