When you have a severe form of asthma, such as eosinophilic asthma, breathing isnt always easy. The condition causes the airways to swell up and tighten.

During a flare, it can feel like you’re exhaling air through a straw while a bowling ball sits on your rib cage.

Whether mild or severe, asthma has no known cure — but you can manage the condition. A combination of medications and lifestyle changes can help you breathe a little easier and make asthma take a backseat to your overall life.

Here are some ways to reduce symptoms and flares of severe asthma.

  1. Follow your treatment plan
  2. Exercise regularly and safely
  3. Avoid getting sick
  4. Stay away from irritants
  5. Reduce allergy triggers at home
  6. Lower stress

Click the plus sign next to each number in the infographic below for more details about each method.