FYI Magazine
Effective ways to reduce asthma attacks
- Created on Wednesday, 25 May 2016 00:46
- Published on Wednesday, 25 May 2016 00:46
- Hits: 1169
Millions of people - 25.9 million in the United States alone - have asthma, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Asthma has become increasingly prevalent in all sex, age and racial groups since the early 1980s. It is one of the most common and costly diseases, and still has no cure.
Swelling of the airways occurs when a person has asthma. This can result in wheezing, coughing and tightness in the chest. For those who cannot find relief, asthma attacks can prove deadly. Although there is no way to prevent asthma, by following a plan, there are ways to lessen the frequency and severity of attacks. Most of these tips involve reducing contact with allergens that can trigger asthma attacks.
Home
First, assess your house to identify and reduce common allergens.
- Wash linens and clothing in hot water to kill off any dust mites. The water temperature should be at least 130 F.
- If pets trigger a reaction, keep companion animals off of furniture and beds where they can leave fur and dander behind. Limit the rooms in which pets can stay. There is some research that states children exposed to animals early in life may actually be less likely to develop allergies and asthma.
- Put allergy-proof covers on pillows.
- Vacuum at least twice a week with a HEPA air filter-enhanced vacuum cleaner.
- Reduce humidity around the house, as it can lead to the prevalence of mold. Mold is a common asthma trigger. That means using a dehumidifier, keeping bathrooms clean and dry and repairing any leaks promptly.
- Insist that people who smoke tobacco products do so outside of the house. Secondhand smoke has been shown to increase the development of asthma and other chronic respiratory illnesses, says the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.
Outside, work and school
You may have less control over allergens outside of the home, but there are still ways to cut down on attacks.
- Avoid smoking areas outside of stores and office buildings.
- Know the office cleaning schedule and work around those hours. In some instances, cleaning products and other chemicals can trigger attacks.
- Keep stress at a minimum because intense emotions can bring on asthma symptoms, according to Paul Ehrlich, M.D., coauthor of "Asthma Allergies Children: A Parent's Guide."
- Check the air quality outdoors before venturing outside. Stay inside during ozone alerts or when the air is very humid or stagnant.
- Seasonal allergies and asthma often go hand-in-hand. Check pollen, mold and ragweed counts. Stay indoors on peak days.
- Be sure physical education teachers are aware that gym class may trigger asthma attacks in your children, and that they should look for apparent symptoms.
In addition to these tips, a rescue inhaler can help quiet a potential attack. Keep medication available at all times. Plus, speak with a doctor about customizing an attack prevention plan even further.