Avoiding Asthma Triggers

Anything that can cause an asthma attack or flare-up is called a trigger. It's essential for you to know what your triggers are so you can control and avoid them, which will reduce your likelihood of having a flare-up.

Here are some helpful tips for avoiding common asthma triggers.

Allergies and Pollen

• Use air conditioning instead of opening the windows during allergy season.
• Change the air conditioner filter monthly.
• Bathe after being outdoors to remove pollen.

Air Quality and Smoke

• If you’re a smoker, quit today.
• Avoid being around others when they are smoking.
• Do not use wood burning stoves or fireplaces, and avoid campfires.
• Try to stay indoors when the air quality is poor outside.

Exercise

Asthma shouldn’t prevent you from physical activities – like exercising or sports – and the important benefits they bring to maintaining overall good health.

Ask your doctor what precautions you should take before participating in physical activities. With the right warm up plan and medication, you should be able to enjoy being active, even outdoors.

Dust and Dust Mites

• Remove all animal products (down and feather pillows, comforters, etc.) from your home.
• Put your mattresses and pillow in special allergen-proof covers.
• Wash your bedding every week in hot water.
• Dust woodwork and wash curtains often.
• Damp mop floors instead of sweeping.
• Vacuum carpets/rugs weekly with a HEPA filter.
• When possible, remove carpeting, especially in the bedroom.
• Replace air conditioner and heater filters monthly.

Mold and Mildew

• Keep the bathroom dry by using a fan or dehumidifier.
• Clean sinks, tubs and showers often.
• Limit houseplants, they can be sources of mold and dampness.
• Clean your nebulizer or inhaler and spacer often.
• If you use a vaporizer or humidifier, always keep it clean.

GERD

Acid reflux disease, also known as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), heartburn, or acid indigestion, is a common complaint for those with asthma. Studies show that more than 75 percent of people with asthma also experience GERD and are twice as likely to have GERD compared with those who do not have asthma. Although the exact relationship between the two diseases is not known, GERD appears to act as a trigger for asthma attacks. Lifestyle changes can help prevent GERD.

Pets

• Keep your pets outside when possible.
• When pets are inside, keep them off the furniture, especially your bed.
• Bathe pets regularly.

Illness

Even minor respiratory illnesses can cause asthma flare-ups. Stay healthy by washing your hands often, getting an annual flu shot, and staying away from people with colds or flu.

Other Triggers

You may discover you have asthma symptoms after eating certain foods or taking medication, such as aspirin or beta blockers. When this happens, tell your doctor you suspect you have a new food or medication trigger – your treatment plan may need to be updated.

Some perfumes, sprays or cleaning products might also make your asthma symptoms worse. If you have sensitivity to smells, avoid contact with chemical products and strongly scented products.