5 Changes at Home to Prevent Asthma Attack
Asthma is a condition in which there is a disturbance in the airflow in the lungs. This makes breathing difficult and causes coughing, breathing sounds, to shortness of breath. Although in some people asthma is a minor disorder, asthma can also be a major problem for many people. Because there is no treatment for asthma, the goal of treatment is to control the disease by identifying and limiting the exposure of triggers, which can cause symptoms that last from minutes to weeks. Some triggers usually include allergies, cold air, respiratory problems, air pollution, heartburn, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), smoke, and a sharp odor.
There are several things you can do to prevent or reduce asthma attacks and symptoms. Make sure people around know your condition so they can help you in case of a sudden asthma attack. Always take a fast-acting asthma medication.
Here are some solutions to reduce asthma attacks in your home.
1. Avoid humidity
To reduce asthma attacks, you should pay attention to air quality. The weather is too hot and humid and poor air quality can trigger asthma symptoms for some people. Also, avoid polluted areas that are able to worsen your health.
- Use your air-conditioning to lower indoor humidity and to reduce pollen from trees and grasses that can enter the room.
- Close always the window when the wind is blowing hard.
- If you live in a humid climate area, consult your doctor to use a dehumidifier.
- Avoid living on busy highways where the risk of air pollution is high.
- If possible, move to a location where you can enjoy the fresh air.
- Avoid changes in temperature in a short time.
2. Limit exposure to dust
Dust is one of the main asthma triggers, because of the small particle content such as powder, fungus, clothing fiber, and detergent. Another trigger is dust mites, which are small insects found on sheets, blankets, pillows, mattresses, furniture, carpets and toys. Keep your house free of dust and dust mites.
- Clean and replace AC filters regularly.
- Take out the carpet and curtains from the bedroom.
- Wash all sheets and toys regularly with hot water.
- Use cover to prevent allergens from pillows and mattresses.
- Vacuum your home 2 times a week.
- Clean the surface of the dust with a damp cloth.
- Use a mask and gloves when cleaning and vacuuming to restrict contact with dust and chemicals.
- Avoid using curtains that collect dust and weight for your windows. You can use shades and curtains that are easy to wash.
- Tidy always stuff.
- Store clothes that have been washed in the closet.
- Keep the bedroom well ventilated.
3. Avoid mildew
Mushrooms and mosses are allergens that can trigger asthma symptoms. Mushrooms grow in damp areas such as shower curtains, toiletries, bathtubs, washbasins, and tiles. Notice the damp place in the kitchen, bathroom, basement, and around the yard. Avoid and clean the mushrooms as soon as they appear.
- Use dehumidifier or exhaust during the bath.
- Clean the damp areas in the bathroom, kitchen and around the house to prevent mold growth.
- At the early signs of mildew, wipe with soap and warm water.
- If it can not be washed, dispose of moldy objects.
- Remove the moldy leaves and the damp firewood from the yard.
- Fix the leaky channel or water source as quickly as possible.
- Remove the plants from the house. Plant in the garden or yard. To prevent mildew, be sure not to water too many plants and keep them in the sun.
4. Avoid pets
Pets can trigger a series of asthma in people who are allergic to it. Hair particles, feathers, and saliva are common enough asthma triggers.
If you can not separate from your pets, make sure you do the following things.
- Prohibit pets from entering the room.
- Do not ban animals on your home furniture.
- Bathe or clean pet regularly.
- Do not allow children with asthma to play with dogs, cats or other animals.
5. Exterminate cockroaches
Cockroaches can also be a trigger of allergies and asthma. Cockroaches produce substances that cause allergic reactions in people who have asthma, as well as coughing and wheezing in infants and children. It is important to eradicate cockroaches from your home.
- Do not leave food, water and garbage open.
- Do not leave pet food outside overnight.
- Clean dishes and cutlery after using them.
- Do not leave the rest of the food and drinks on the table. Clean with soapy water.
- Use a cockroach trap or gel to root out a cockroach.
- Every 2 - 3 days, vacuum, broom and mop area where you see a cockroach.
- Check the yard and garage for insect nests.
- Close all gaps that can be passed by cockroaches, such as sinks, leaking pipes and more.
- Reduce the humidity in your home because it can increase the growth of cockroaches and other pests.
- If necessary, contact an exterminator to expel a cockroach.