Prevention
How can I prevent or lessen asthma triggers?
Triggers are things that set off an asthma attack. Catching a cold could be an asthma trigger; so are things like pollens or molds inside your home. Different people have different asthma triggers. At Healthy Home Resources our goal is to eliminate household triggers to prevent asthma attacks. Click on these triggers to read what you can do to prevent an asthma attack:
Cigarettes and Secondhand Smoke
The surest way to eliminate asthma attacks caused by cigarettes, cigars or pipes is to stop smoking in the home, car or anywhere there are adults or children with asthma. From a health standpoint, quitting smoking is the best solution for you and your family.
(Allergens from dogs, cats, rodents and birds) Pets should be removed from the home of a person with asthma. If this is not possible, pets should be kept out of the bedroom of the person with asthma. Allergen-resistant bed and pillow covers should be used to reduce animal dander. Remove carpeting in bedrooms and other rooms if possible. This will provide a surface that can be damp-mopped easily and often.
Keep food and drinks in sealed containers. Empty all garbage cans daily. Wash dishes as quickly as possible. Seal all holes and cracks that may be entries and repair leaky plumbing. Once the food and water sources for cockroaches are removed and entryways are sealed, clean thoroughly to remove roach debris.
Dust mites are tiny insects; they live in humid paces where there is dusty fabric. Every home has dust mites, but these simple steps can keep them under control. Remove down-filled pillows, comforters, quilts, stuffed animals and clutter from bedrooms. Use allergen-resistant covers on pillows and mattresses. Wash bedding weekly in hot water. Do not use humidifiers and vaporizers. Remove carpeting if possible to provide an easy to clean surface.
Rat and mouse urine may contain allergens that trigger asthma. Keep rats and mice out of the home by removing all sources of food and water, then seal all possible entryways. Buy mouse or rat traps that do not use pesticides or chemicals. Clean thoroughly to remove any remaining debris or dander.
Mold grows best in moist places and is a strong asthma trigger. Control moisture by removing vaporizers and humidifiers from the home. Fix leaky plumbing and seal damp basements. If there are large areas of mold growth, call a mold professional.
Pollen grains are tiny, unseen particles that come from plants. They float in the air and are difficult to eliminate from the home. Pollen is worst in spring and late summer. Extra care should be taken to keep the home dust free during these times.
Strong odors from chemicals and paints can trigger an asthma attack. These items should not be used around adults and children who are sensitive to these triggers. Use cleaning products with no fragrance if possible, or use the products when the person with asthma is not home.
