Recently diagnosed
 
There is no cure for asthma, but it is possible to treat the symptoms with medication usually delivered by an inhaler or special equipment such as a nebuliser. If you've just found out that you have asthma, there are a number of things you can do to minimise the frequency of attacks.  
 
Lifestyle changes which can help 
Keeping your home clean by vacuuming and damp dusting regularly can help reduce the presence of dust mites, which can irritate your airways. It is important for people with asthma to avoid factors that trigger their asthma, for example, avoiding cats and dogs. 
 
Giving up smoking can strengthen your lungs and reduce the chance of an attack. 
 
Be aware of other medication you are taking. Aspirin, NSAIDs and beta-blockers, for example, can provoke or worsen the symptoms of asthma. If you have any concerns, make an appointment at your GP's surgery to discuss these.  
 
Gentle exercise can help keep your lungs healthy, but you should always talk to your doctor before starting any exercise routine and check that your asthma is well-controlled. 
 
Read food packets, looking out for additives like tartrazine, a dye used in many everyday foods, and benzoic acid, which can be found in fizzy drinks. These can both trigger allergic reactions, which could in turn lead to an asthma attack.  
 
Learn how medicines can help