Triggers are things that start asthma flare-ups. Because you cannot avoid these triggers completely, you may also need to take allergy medicines. Here are the types of triggers that are most commonly the cause of problems for people with asthma.
Dust mites Dust mites are tiny bugs. They live in mattresses, bedding, carpets and on furniture. It is not practical to get rid of all of them, but you can reduce them by:
Washing your bedding weekly in hot water
Using mite-proof mattress covers and pillow cases
Dusting your home regularly including beneath furniture and appliances
Changing heating and air conditioner filters regularly
When possible, replace carpets with wood, tile or linoleum flooring
Pets Any animal with fur or feathers can cause problems. The problems are caused by tiny allergy-causing particles called dander. To reduce their effects:
Keep your pet out of your bedroom if you cannot keep the pet outside
Choose a pet without fur or feathers
Wash your hands thoroughly and change clothes after you handle a pet
Mold Mold grows in damp places. As it grows, particles escape into the air. To control mold in your home:
Clean your bathroom surfaces weekly
Use an exhaust fan or open a window when taking a bath or shower
Do not use vaporizers or humidifiers that moisten the air and cause mold
Pollen Pollen from plants is a very common type of trigger. To reduce the effects of this trigger:
Learn what types of pollen cause problems for you. An allergist can give you tests.
Use the air conditioning in your home and car
Stay inside when pollen levels are high outdoors
Avoid yard work
Smoke and other pollution
Being around people who smoke is likely to cause asthma to flare up. The same applies to being outside when smog levels are high. To reduce the effects of smoke and smog:
Don't smoke or allow people to smoke in your home, office or car
Choose non-smoking restaurants, hotel rooms, rental cars or other public places
Stay away from fireplaces and barbeque grills
Pay attention to air quality and smog reports
Stay inside when pollution levels are high
Use air conditioning in your home and car
Strong odors
Perfume, air fresheners, mothballs and other strong odors usually carry chemicals that can cause irritation. Make sure to:
Use scent-free products in your home and on your body
Use pump bottles instead of spray cans
Avoid cleaning with bleach or ammonia
Use exhaust fans
Never store clothes in mothballs or cedar chips
Household pests
Cockroach, mice and rat droppings are another common trigger for people with asthma. Remember to:
Keep your kitchen clean and your faucets in good repair. Leaky faucets attract pests.
Store food carefully in sealed containers
Remove garbage daily
Use traps or baits to control these pests. Chemical sprays can trigger asthma attacks.
Food allergies
Food allergies can cause many different reactions. These include asthma as well as hives and upset stomach. These allergies can get worse over time. Always:
Check ingredient lists carefully. Many foods that cause allergies are also ingredients in other foods. For example, peanuts oil is found in many foods.
Teach children to avoid eating foods away from home if they are not sure of the ingredients.
