Workplace Health Strategies
Asthma
Asthma is a lung disease characterized by inflammation of the passages that transport air from the nose and mouth to the lungs. An asthma attack is caused by irritation of those airways which reduces the amount of air that can get to the lungs. Asthma symptoms can be caused by allergens or irritants that are inhaled into the lungs, resulting in inflamed, narrowed, clogged, and constricted airways. Symptoms include wheezing, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, coughing, and tightness in the chest. In severe cases, asthma can be deadly.
Nearly 25 million Americans suffer from asthma (over 8% of adults, over 9% of children); it is one of this country’s most common and costly diseases.
It can limit a person’s quality of life. There is no cure for asthma, but asthma can be managed with proper prevention and treatment, and employers can contribute with support for employees to help manage and treat asthma.
Triggers for asthma
- Outdoor allergens: air pollution, pollen, smoke
- Indoor allergens: dust mites, mold, pet dander, dust, chemical fumes, fragrances
- Changes in weather(most often cold weather)
- Exercise
- Infections linked to influenza, colds, and other viruses
- Emotional stress
- Certain medications: aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs(NSAIDs) like Ibuprofen(Motrin, Advil) and Naproxen(Aleve, Naprosyn)
Strategies to manage asthma
- Protect with healthy air in the workplace environment
- Provide educational opportunities such as: The American Lung Association’s Breathe Well, Live Well program, a small group workshop that teaches adults the knowledge and self-management skills to take control of their asthma; and CDC’s Asthma Control program, America Breathe Easier, helps America breathe easier by learning more about asthma and how to control it
- Promote healthy workplaces by reducing or eliminating known asthma triggers
- Promote measures that prevent asthma attacks such as eliminating co-payments for inhaled corticosteroids and other prescribed medicines
- Provide reimbursement for educational sessions conducted by clinicians, health educators, and other health professionals both within and outside of the clinical setting
- Provide reimbursement for long-term control medicines, education, and services to reduce asthma triggers that are often not covered by health insurers
- Provide time or resources for asthma support group attendance
Better Choices, Better Health® SD Workshops
Millions of people live with chronic health conditions. BCBH-SD offers FREE workshops for adults and their caregivers to help them manage symptoms, be more active, and improve quality of life. Find out more about virtual & in-person sessions in South Dakota.
