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Environmental Tobacco Smoke, Also Known As
Secondhand Smoke
Parents, friends, and relatives of children with asthma should try to stop
smoking. Until they can successfully quit, they should smoke only outdoors,
not in the home or in the family car. They should not allow others to smoke
in the home, and should make sure the child's school is smoke-free.
Dust Mites
Mattress covers and pillow case covers provide a barrier between house dust
mites and the person with asthma. Down-filled pillows, quilts, or comforters
should not be used and stuffed animals and clutter should be removed from
bedrooms.
Outdoor Air Pollution
Pollution caused by industrial emissions and automobile exhaust can cause an
asthma episode. In large cities that have air pollution problems the number
of emergency department visits for asthma episodes goes up when the air
quality is very poor.
Cockroach Allergen
You may find cockroaches any place where food is eaten and crumbs are left
behind. Decreasing exposure to cockroaches in the home can help reduce
asthma attacks. Remove as many water and food sources as you can because
cockroaches need food and water to survive. Vacuum or sweep these areas at
least every 2-3 days. You can also use roach traps or gels to decrease the
number of cockroaches in your home.
Pets
Furry pets may trigger an attack. The simplest solution to this situation is
to find another home for the pet. However, some pet owners may be too
attached to their pets or unable to locate a safe new home for the animal.
Any animal causing an allergic reaction should not be allowed in the
bedroom. Pets should be kept outside as much as possible and bathed weekly.
People with asthma are not allergic to their pet’s fur, so trimming the
pet’s fur will not help your asthma. Frequent vacuuming will reduce the
presence of the allergen. If the room has a hard surface floor, it should be
damp mopped weekly.
Mold
When mold is inhaled, it can cause asthma attacks. Eliminating mold
throughout the home can help control asthma attacks. Keep humidity levels
between 35% and 50%. In hot, humid climates, this may require the use of air
conditioning and/or dehumidifiers. Fixing water leaks and cleaning up any
mold in the home can also help.
Other Triggers
Strenuous physical exercise; adverse weather conditions like freezing
temperatures, high humidity, and thunderstorms; and some foods and food
additives and drugs can trigger asthma episodes. Strong emotional states
also can lead to hyperventilation and an asthma episode. People with asthma
should learn if these things trigger their episodes and avoid them when
possible.
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