Learn How to Reduce Asthma Triggers in Your Home

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects the quality of life for more than 23 million Americans, including an estimated 6 million children. Additionally, there is no cure for asthma yet. However, asthma can be controlled through medical treatment and management of environmental triggers.

Anyone can get asthma - people of all ethnic groups, male and female, young and old. Also, asthma is common among children and teens; about three students in an average classroom of 30 have asthma in America today (about 10%).

What are the warning signs of asthma?

Inflammation of the airways is an important component of asthma. Additionally, inflammation can make your airways more sensitive and more narrow than usual, making it harder to breathe. As a result, the airways in the lungs may react to various triggers and become more inflamed. Plus, the muscles around the airways can also tighten. All of this can reduce airflow in your airways and can cause asthma symptoms.

Finally, signs and symptoms of asthma include:

• Shortness of breath
• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Chest tightness

How can I reduce asthma triggers in my home?

Indoor allergens and irritants play a significant role in triggering asthma attacks. For example, triggers are things that can cause asthma symptoms, an episode or attack or make asthma worse. If you have asthma, you may react to just one trigger or you may find that several things act as triggers.

The kinds of “triggers” that can cause asthma symptoms can vary from person to person, and may not always be identifiable. Some triggers include:

• Allergens such as dust mites, pollen (from trees, grass, and weeds), mold, animal dander, or cockroaches
• Irritants such as tobacco smoke, chemicals, sprays, dust, or air pollution
• Respiratory illness such as a cold or flu
• Physical activity
• Cold or very dry air
• Strong emotions or stress

Be sure to work with a doctor to identify triggers and develop a treatment plan that includes ways to reduce exposures to your asthma triggers.