Swim Tips? (asthma & shoulders)

[Miranda]

I've done a couple searches and foud some info, but just looking for some more help being new to the pool...

Asthma...

I have asthma. I am struggling on how to breath freestyle with my head in water. I just can't get enough wind. (Btw, I do take my albuterol inhailer as a prevention before I work out.)

One of the life guards told me to breath out underwater. Given it one try so far. I'll practice more. Hungering for air is a very deep seated fear as an asthmatic. Mechanically, I've been told what to do... but my body just doesn't want to play along*sigh*.

Does anyone have any tips on how to get over this problem?

Shoulders...

Just my right shoulder is killing me (btw, right handed). I read part of this can be fixed by technique and rolling more. But, is there anything else to help? Special stretches? Anything? I have enough other stuff not swimming related that's messed up, I don't want to injury myself there.

TYIA