When asthma and allergy patients think about managing symptoms, they often turn to medications that specifically address their respiratory issues. However, many experts say patients should take a broader view of their health and consider lifestyle factors that can impact their breathing.

Taking a whole-body approach to lung health is not just about quality of life. It can also be a matter of life and death, says Purvi Parikh, MD, board-certified allergist with Allergy and Asthma Associates of Murray Hill in New York City.Many people think it’s a benign disease, but it can be very dangerous if not controlled.”
While you should always consult with your doctor about specific symptoms and medications, you should also evaluate your lifestyle – sleep, exercise, nutrition, stress management and environmental factors.
These things are all connected. They are not isolated,” Dr. Parikh says. “Your lungs work with every organ in your body, so if something else is not working right, it will affect your lungs.”

How to take a “whole body” approach to managing your allergies and asthma
Prioritize good sleep and relaxation.
Try to keep your weight in a healthy range.
Forget junk food. Focus instead on fresh fruits and vegetables and lean meats.
Aim for at least a little exercise every day.
Don’t skip doctor’s appointments.
Take medications as prescribed and refill prescriptions before they run out.
Stay current with your vaccinations, especially influenza and pneumonia.
Keep windows and doors closed on days when pollen counts are high and air quality is poor Good Sleep Is Important For Allergy,v Asthma Management.
Getting enough sleep is key to overall health, not just for asthma or allergy management. People who do not get enough sleep on a regular basis will struggle to control their immune system, which plays a huge role in lung health.

When you don’t sleep enough, you are more likely to have uncontrolled asthma or allergies, and you are also more likely to catch infections or viruses that can affect your lungs.
Adults should aim for eight hours of sleep a night, with more recommended for children.
If you snore heavily, wake up a lot at night or wake up still feeling tired, consider seeing a specialist to be tested for sleep apnea, a disorder in which breathing is briefly and repeatedly interrupted during sleep.
Avoid exposure to the blue light emitted by cellphones, laptops and tablets for 1-2 hours before going to bed. This light suppresses melatonin production, an important trigger to the brain that it’s time for rest.
Avoid alcohol or caffeine near bedtime. Both can disrupt sleep.
Stick to a routine bedtime so your body gets used to a schedule. Try not to take naps during the day.Exercise Can Help With Airway Inflammation.