Breathing Easier with Asthma

One of the most important factors in managing asthma is reducing inflammation when possible. To do this, you should limit exposure to allergens, as well as irritants. Many studies have shown that reducing or eliminating certain allergens significantly reduces asthma symptoms and the need for less medication to control the disease.

Here are a few tips on how to minimize exposure:

Dust and Dust Mite control

Remove all dust collectors, such as stuffed toys, from the bedroom

Keep humidity at 30 to 50 percent and temperature at around 68 degrees

Remove carpets, especially in bedrooms and play areas

Encase mattresses, box springs and pillow with zippered allergy proof covers

Choose washable bedding and launder it once a week in hot water to kill dust mites

Vacuum and clean floors, mattresses and window covering regularly.

Animal Control

Remove furry pets from the home, if possible

Wash pets every week

Do not replace a pet when one dies, or choose a pet that does not shed hair

Mold Control

Molds are fungi that produce spores that can be inhaled. Both indoor and outdoor molds can aggravate asthma in sensitive individuals.

Keep humidity in the home between 30 and 50 percent and the indoor temperature at 68 degrees

Remove items that can increase molds in the home, such as plants, aquariums, etc

Clean ventilation equipment and replace filters regularly

Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and when cooking to reduce the growth of mold

Wash windows and shower stalls with bleach

Irritant Control

Avoid smoking in the house

Avoid using a fireplace and wood stoves

Avoid paint fume, house renovations and strong odors from household cleaners, air fresheners and perfumed/deodorants, especially when the asthma is not controlled