Asthma Asthma Treatment

Avoiding Asthma Triggers

Approximately 15 million Americans suffer from chronic asthma. Exposure to outdoor and indoor triggers that irritate breathing airways can bring about episodes of wheezing, coughing and difficulty breathing. That’s why experts recommend limiting contact with triggers in order to prevent or reduce asthma attacks. Although it may be impossible to eliminate all triggers, pinpointing what causes your asthma attacks can help you develop strategies to minimize exposure.

Potential Asthma Triggers

Pollen: Avoid going outdoors before 10 a.m. when the pollen is at its highest during the pollen season. If you exercise outside, then try doing it later in the day or inside. If you drive to work, then roll up your car windows to avoid exposure. Staying indoors with the air conditioning on can also help alleviate symptoms.

Cold Weather: During the winter months, wear a scarf and breathe into it so the cold air warms before entering your airways. Breathing through your nose instead of your mouth often helps.

Smoke: Avoid wood burning (bonfires), cigarette smoke and fireplaces.

Pollution: Exhaust, smog and ozone are important environmental triggers. Stay indoors during smog alerts and avoid midday activities.

Mold: Mold can grow on almost anything and anywhere when enough moisture is present. Scrub mold off surfaces and thoroughly dry the area to prevent moisture from building up. Have air vents cleaned. Use a dehumidifier in the home and clean it every day.

Dust: Keep surfaces clear of dust by using damp rags. Vacuum carpets, fabric-covered furniture and curtains. Those allergic to dust should not be in the room while vacuuming. Vacuums with high-efficiency filters are the best.

Dust Mites: The droppings of dust mites, bugs that cannot be seen by the naked eye, can trigger asthma. They feed on skin flakes and other proteins that live in mattresses, carpets and clothes. Wash all bedding at least once a week in hot water, encase mattresses and pillows in zipped allergen covers and avoid keeping stuffed animals on the bed. Keep household humidity low.

Pet Dander: Dead skin flakes, urine, saliva and hair of pets can trigger asthma. If a pet must stay in the home, it's best to keep them out of the bedroom and restrict them to specific areas. It is also good to wash the pet often.

Cockroaches: Cockroaches are only a problem in certain cities and climates. Cockroach droppings and body parts can irritate asthma sufferers. Clean up spills immediately and take the garbage out regularly. Do not leave food out uncovered and store it in cabinets and counters in airtight containers. Remove empty boxes and newspapers. Use poison baits and traps instead of chemicals and sprays for pest control.

Chemicals: Avoid contact with perfumed products and chemical inhalants.