Smoking is bad for everyone, but particularly for people with asthma. If you have asthma and smoke, you are increasing the risk of an asthma attack and may be permanently damaging your airways. Remember - it is never too late to stop. Other people's cigarette smoke can worsen your asthma. If you live with a smoker, try to persuade them to give up - or at the very least to smoke in a different room.
Smoking outside is an even better option.
If flu, colds or other viral infections trigger your asthma symptoms then try to avoid coming into contact with people who have one of these illnesses. You should also consider having the flu vaccination before winter sets in. Ask your doctor or nurse whether you need one. You should not have the vaccination if you are allergic to chicken or eggs, or when you have a cold. Older people who have severe asthma should also talk to their doctor about whether an anti-pneumococcal pneumonia vaccination might help.