Asthma is a chronic disease that affects the airways in the lungs, causing them to be inflamed and narrow.

American college students with asthma face unique challenges when it comes to managing their condition, including environmental exposures such as secondhand smoke, poor air quality, and stress from academic demands. However, with the right strategies and support, college students with asthma can reduce their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

1. Develop an Asthma Action Plan

An asthma action plan is a personalized guide developed with your healthcare provider that outlines the steps you should take to manage your asthma symptoms. It includes information on medications, triggers to avoid, and emergency procedures.

College students with asthma should keep a copy of their asthma action plan on hand and share it with their roommates, professors, and campus health services.

2. Identify and Avoid Triggers

Triggers are environmental factors that can worsen asthma symptoms, such as pollen, mold, and cigarette smoke. College students with asthma should be aware of their triggers and take steps to avoid them.

This might include using air purifiers, cleaning regularly, and avoiding smoking areas.

3. Use Medications as Prescribed

Asthma medications can help to control symptoms and prevent asthma attacks. It’s essential for college students with asthma to properly use their medications as prescribed by their healthcare provider.

Students should also ensure that they have a reliable source of their medications while away at school, such as a refillable prescription from a local pharmacy.

4. Communicate with Professors

College students with asthma should communicate with their professors about their condition.

This can include letting them know if they need accommodations, such as an air purifier in the classroom or an exemption from physical activity during high pollen seasons. It’s important for students to advocate for their needs to ensure that they can succeed academically while managing their asthma.

5. Seek Support from Campus Resources

Many colleges and universities have health services that provide support and resources for students with chronic conditions such as asthma.

At these health services, students with asthma can receive asthma education, support, and guidance on how to manage their condition while at college. Reach out to campus resources to learn about available assistance and resources.

6. Manage Stress Levels

Stress can trigger asthma symptoms, so it’s important for college students with asthma to manage their stress levels. Techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and exercise can help to reduce stress.

Counseling resources are also available to help students cope with the demands of college life.

7. Stay Active and Fit

Physical activity is an important part of a healthy lifestyle for people with asthma. College students with asthma should aim to get regular exercise and actively reflect on activities they may need to modify.

Discussing exercise modifications with healthcare provider may be helpful. Staying active can help to improve lung function and overall health.

8. Keep an Emergency Action Plan Ready

Despite one’s diligent asthma management, instances of asthma attacks still can occur. Therefore, college students with asthma should have an asthma emergency action plan in place for unexpected asthma attacks.

Know where the nearest emergency room is and have your emergency inhaler readily accessible.

9. Collaborate with Roommates

College roommates can be a helpful resource for students with asthma, but it’s important to communicate openly and honestly with them about one’s asthma.

Explain what asthma is, what your triggers are, and what they can do to help you manage your asthma. Communicating what they should expect during an asthma attack and what they can do to help alleviate the symptoms is important.

10. Seek Healthcare Services When Needed

It’s crucial for college students with asthma to prioritize their healthcare needs. They should seek healthcare services when they need to, and not ignore symptoms that may require medical attention.

Students have access to healthcare facilities on or near their college campus. Don’t hesitate to use these services when needed.