Asthma is a long-term (chronic) lung condition. Experts are not exactly sure what causes asthma. It may be
caused by a mix of inherited and environmental factors.
People with asthma may have no symptoms until they’re exposed to an allergen or trigger. Since triggers can make
asthma symptoms get worse or flare up, it’s important to be aware, and try to stay away from them, if possible.
Indoor allergens (dust, mold, pet dander,
and cockroaches)
- Dust often with a damp cloth and vacuum at
least once a week. You might need to wear a
face mask while cleaning.
- Remove clutter that can collect dust or grow
mold. If possible, remove carpets and rugs.
• Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens.
- Make sure air conditioners, heating units, and
appliances are clean. Change filters often.
- Wash your bedding every week. Use dust-proof
pillow and mattress covers.
- Keep pets out of your bedroom. Keep them off
furniture and rugs. Have pets groomed often.
- Wash dishes, clean counters, and empty trash
after eating or making meals. This helps
prevent cockroaches. Keep all foods in sealed
bags or containers.
- Use home air filters and vacuums that can
decrease allergens. Change or clean filters
as instructed.
Outdoor allergens (pollens, mold, grasses, and trees)
- Check the pollen counts in your area. Try to stay
indoors when levels are high outdoors. If you
have to go out, consider wearing a face mask
when you go outside.
- Wash your hands when you come indoors if
allergen levels are high outdoors. Also think
about bathing and changing your clothes.
- Don’t rake leaves or cut the grass if these things
bother you. Think about wearing a face mask
when you work in your garden.
Irritants (air pollution, smoke, strong odors,
chemicals, and other products)
- If you smoke, think about quitting. And try to stay
away from secondhand and third-hand smoke.
- Stay away from fireplaces, wood stoves,
barbecues or grills, or other sources of smoke.
- Watch air pollution levels. If the level is high,
stay indoors as much as possible.
- Use scent-free cleaning, laundry, health,
and beauty products.
- Don’t use candles, potpourri, or air fresheners.
Weather changes (extreme cold or hot temperatures)
- Stay indoors when it is very cold, hot, windy,
or humid outside.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a scarf or face
mask in cold weather.