Controlling Asthma Triggers

How can I prevent asthma triggers at home?

The most important thing you can do is to control asthma triggers. The main asthma triggers that are in your home are dust mites, molds, pollens, pets, cockroaches, and household irritants. Secondhand tobacco smoke may also be a trigger in your home, especially for a child with asthma.

How can I protect myself against dust mites?

1. Encase pillows, mattresses, and box springs with allergen-proof, zippered covers.
2. Wash all bedding in hot water about once a week.
3. Non-carpeted flooring is best. If you cannot get rid of your carpeting, vacuum often with a multi-layer, allergen-proof vacuum bag. Wear a mask while vacuuming. If your child has asthma, do not vacuum while he or she is in the room. Products that eliminate dust mites from carpeting (such as Acarosan) can be purchased. Your asthma care provider can give you information about these products.
4. Regularly change filters on heaters and air conditioners.
5. Replace heavy, lined curtains or drapes with washable window coverings. Wash window coverings in hot water. Use plain window shades instead of mini-blinds.
6. Dust all surfaces often, including lampshades and windowsills, with a damp cloth.
7. Keep clutter under control. Toys and books should be stored in enclosed bookshelves, drawers, or closets.
8. Replace traditional stuffed animals with washable stuffed animals.
9. Keep all clothing in drawers and closets. Keep drawers and closets closed.
10. Cover air ducts with filters or cheesecloth. Change these when soiled.
11. Pillows and bedding should not contain feathers.
12. Keep indoor humidity low (25-50%). Use a dehumidifier.

How do I stop mold and mildew from growing in my home?

1. Air out damp, humid areas frequently. Run a dehumidifier to keep humidity between 25% and 50%.
2. Use air conditioners when possible.
3. Clean bathrooms regularly using products that kill and prevent mold. Use exhaust fans to vent steam. Do not carpet the bathroom.
4. Keep indoor plants out of bedrooms.
5. When painting, add mold inhibitor to paint to prevent mold from growing.
6. Avoid sources of outdoor molds, such as wet leaves or garden debris.

How do I control insects inside my home?

Many homes and apartments have cockroaches and other insects. Some people with asthma are allergic to these. To control these allergens in your home:

1. Use roach baits or traps.
2. Insect sprays can be used but should only be sprayed when no one is at home.
3. Before you or your child returns home after spraying, make sure that your home has been aired out for a couple of hours.

How can I decrease my exposure to pollens?

Pollens are difficult to avoid, as they cannot be eliminated from the atmosphere. You can lessen your or your child's exposure to these by following these guidelines:

1. Pollen counts are highest early in the morning, especially on warm, dry days. Limit your or your child's outdoor activities during these times.
2. Keep windows closed during pollen seasons.
3. Use air conditioning if possible.

How do I protect myself against asthma triggers from pets?

1. It is best not to own any pets if you or your child is highly allergic. Definitely avoid pets that have been shown to cause allergies.
2. Long visits to friends and family who own pets should be avoided. If you do visit, make sure you or your child takes asthma medicines before the visit. Exposure to the pets should be kept to a minimum when visiting.
3. If you must have a cat or dog in the home, restrict its living area. It should not be allowed in your or your child's bedroom at any time. If possible, keep the pet outside.
4. Wash the animal weekly.
5. Remove as much carpeting as possible. Animal dander deposits in the carpeting and stays there, even after the pet is gone from the home.

How do I avoid irritants in the air?

1. Avoid using aerosol sprays, paint, and cleaning agents with heavy odors when you are in the home. Make sure your home has proper ventilation. Wear a mask or handkerchief over your mouth when cleaning, dusting, vacuuming, sweeping, or working in the yard.
2. Do not use perfumes, scented lotions, or other highly scented products that may irritate your lungs.
3. Avoid wood smoke.
4. If you live in an area where air pollution is a problem, limit outdoor activities when the pollution counts are high.
5. Use an exhaust fan when cooking to remove smoke and odors.

How can I protect my child from secondhand tobacco smoke?

If your child has childhood asthma, there are a number of steps you can take to protect your child from secondhand tobacco smoke:

1. If you smoke, quit -- if not for yourself, for your child. If your spouse or other family members smoke, help them understand the dangers of smoking and encourage them to quit.
2. Do not allow anyone to smoke in your home, car, or while having extended contact with your child.
3. Choose smoke-free places to go with your family. Avoid restaurants and public areas that allow smoking.