1. Avoid Humidity
To reduce asthma attacks, you must pay attention to air quality. Extremely hot, humid weather and poor air quality can trigger symptoms for many people. Also, avoid highly polluted areas that can worsen your condition.
- Use an air conditioner to lower indoor humidity and reduce airborne pollen from trees, grasses and weeds that finds its way indoors.
- Keep your windows closed during pollen season.
- If you live in a damp climate, consult your doctor about using a dehumidifier.
- Avoid living near a highway or a busy intersection where there is greater risk of air pollution.
- If possible, move to a location where you can enjoy fresh, dry air.
- Avoid exposure to varying temperatures within a short time.
2. Limit Dust Exposure
Due to its allergy-inducing properties, dust is one of the most common asthma triggers as it contains tiny particles of pollen, mold, fibers from clothing, and detergents. A similar trigger is dust mites, which are tiny bugs that live in sheets, blankets, pillows, mattresses, soft furniture, carpets and stuffed toys. Hence, do your best to keep your house free from dust and dust mites.
- Clean and replace air-conditioner filters on a regular basis.
- Remove carpets and heavy drapes from the bedroom.
- Wash all bedding and stuffed animals frequently in hot water.
- Use allergen-barrier coverings for pillows and mattresses.
- Vacuum your house twice a week.
- Dust all surfaces with a damp cloth often.
- Wear a mask and gloves when cleaning or vacuuming to limit dust and chemical exposure.
- Avoid dust-collecting blinds or long drapes for your windows. You can use window shades and washable curtains.
- Keep clutter under control.
- Store washed clothes in drawers and closets.
- Keep bedrooms well ventilated.
3. Prevent Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew are allergens that can trigger asthma symptoms. Mold grows on damp areas like shower curtains, bath items, tubs, basins and tiles. Be aware of damp places in your kitchen, bathroom, basement and around the yard. Do your best to reduce exposure by preventing mold and cleaning it as soon as it appears.
- Run a dehumidifier or use an exhaust fan when taking a shower.
- Regularly clean damp areas in the bathroom, kitchen and around the house to prevent mold spores from developing.
- At the first sign of mold, clean it up with mild soap and hot water.
- If not washable, throw away moldy items.
- Get rid of moldy leaves or damp firewood in the yard.
- Fix leaky plumbing or other sources of water as soon as possible.
- Remove household plants. Plant them in your garden or backyard instead. To prevent mold, make sure not to overwater plants and keep them in a sunny place.
4. Say No to Smoke
Smoke of any kind can irritate your lungs, especially when you have asthma. In fact, smoke is a well-known asthma trigger that you must avoid to prevent attacks. Asthma symptoms like coughing and wheezing become worse when exposed to smoke.
- If you smoke cigarettes, quit immediately.
- Avoid secondhand smoke.
- Do not allow others to smoke in your home or car.
- Avoid public places that permit smoking.
- Stay at a smoke-free hotel when traveling.
- Make sure your kitchen has a proper exhaust fan or chimney to remove cooking smoke.
- Minimize exposure to other sources of smoke like incense, candles, fires and fireworks.
5. Stay Away from Pets
Pets can trigger an asthma episode in people who are allergic to them. Pet dander, particles of hair, fur, feathers, and saliva are common asthma triggers.
If parting ways with a beloved family pet is not possible, be sure that you:
- Keep the pet out of your bedroom completely.
- Do not allow your pet on any furniture.
- Have your pet regularly bathed or groomed.
- Do not allow children who suffer from asthma to play with dogs, cats and other animals.
6. Kill Cockroaches
Cockroaches can also trigger allergies and asthma attacks. They produce substances that cause allergic reactions in people who have asthma, and coughing and wheezing in babies and small children. It is important to eliminate cockroaches from your home.
- Do not leave food, water and garbage uncovered.
- Do not leave pet food out overnight.
- Wash your dishes and utensils soon after using them.
- Do not leave bits of food and spilled drinks on the counter tops. Clean the counters and tables with soapy water.
- Use roach traps or gels to get rid of cockroaches.
- Every 2 to 3 days, vacuum, sweep and mop any areas where you see cockroaches.
- Inspect your backyard and garage to see where these bugs are hiding.
- Seal up any openings where cockroaches can enter, such as sinks, leaky pipes and so on.
- Reduce humidity in your home as it promotes the growth of cockroaches and other pests.
