Simple Changes Parents Can Make at Home To Reduce Asthma Triggers
For many children who suffer from asthma, taking a breath can be
difficult. Asthma sufferers can begin to wheeze, and breathing can
become deeply labored.
Since there is no "cure" for asthma, it may last a lifetime. Treatment
involves understanding and avoiding asthma triggers. Creating a
healthier indoor home air environment is important for anyone, but
especially for those affected by asthma.
Jay Portnoy, MD, section chief, Allergy, Asthma and Immunology at
Children’s Mercy Hospitals and Clinics, say it is important to know
what brings on most asthma attacks.
“Allergens such as mold, pollen, pet dander, or dust mites or irritants
such as tobacco smoke, room deodorizers or candles can trigger an
asthma attack,” Dr. Portnoy says. “Triggers also include exercise,
weather, infections, even emotions like being anxious or scared.”
Dr. Portnoy says it’s important to identify these triggers so you can
control or get rid of them in the home. He offers this advice:
Bedrooms are often a breeding ground for dust mites. They
can found on pillows, bedding, mattresses, box springs, carpet, and
even your child’s stuffed toys. Use mite-proof encasings for box
springs, mattresses and pillow covers. Wash bed linens, blankets and
stuffed toys in hot water to kill the mites. Remove upholstered
furniture and carpet from your child’s room, if possible.
Keep the kitchen as clean as possible by putting away all
food, removing the trash and wiping the counters down at the end of
each day. To combat mold, check under cabinets, behind the
refrigerator, around the trash can to dry up any spills left behind.
Bathroom, basements, crawl spaces and attached garages are
also a breeding ground for mold, moisture, poor ventilation and
chemical fumes. Pesticides, household cleaner fumes, dust, mold, and
bacteria can build up in these places. It is important to keep these
areas clean, dry and well ventilated, as well as making sure any
cleaners or pesticides are in properly sealed containers.
