Asthma Asthma Basics

You Can Control Your Asthma Triggers

Get Tested
Once you have determined your possible triggers for asthma attacks, its time to talk to your doctor. He or she can do confirmatory tests to determine your level of allergy to common indoor and outdoor allergens (a substance that a person is allergic to). This may involve 'skin prick' tests, where small amounts of the offending allergen are injected under the skin, and the response on the skin is measured. Alternatively, a blood test (called a RAST survey) may be used.

Trigger Solutions
Now it's time to put this knowledge into action. The following recommendations may or may not apply to you, depending on your individual trigger(s). It is up to you (with the help of your doctor) to take control of your asthma. Although some of the advice that follows may be impractical, you should prioritize and do as much as you possibly can. You'll be surprised at how your asthma will improve.

House Dust Mites
Dust mites are microscopic insects that feed on human skin. They may be the single most important allergen in the environment. They particularly flourish in the bedroom, where we shed skin on the mattress and pillow during sleep. They also seem to like warm, humid air.

Here are some tips for controlling dust mites:

• Encase your mattress and box spring in a special airtight cover.
• Encase your pillow or wash it once a week.
• Avoid sleeping on upholstered furniture.
• Remove carpets that are laid on concrete.
• Wash your bedding once a week in hot water (130 degrees F).
• Reduce indoor humidity to less than 50%.
• Remove carpets from your bedroom.
• Avoid using a vacuum, or use one with a special bag, wear a special mask, or use a central vacuuming system.

Animal Dander
Animal dander are flakes and other particles from the skin, hair, or feathers of warm-blooded pets including dogs, cats, birds, and mice. There is no such thing as an allergen-free dog or cat. The length of the pet's hair is not important. To control animal dander, it is desirable to:

• Remove the animal from your home.
• If you can't remove the animal, at least keep your pet out of the bedroom.
• Bathe your pet weekly.
• Use a vacuum cleaner fitted with a HEPA filter.

Indoor Molds

• Keep bathrooms and basements well ventilated.
• Clean these areas regularly.
• Avoid humidifiers and use a dehumidifier in damp basements (moisture creates an environment that mold thrives in).

Tobacco Smoke

• Don't smoke and don't allow anyone else to smoke in your home.
• Encourage family members to quit smoking.
• If all else fails, keep smokers out of your bedroom and use an air purifier.

Outdoor Molds

• Stay indoors during midday when pollen counts are high.
• Keep the windows closed and use air conditioning.
• Avoid wet leaves and garden debris.

Infections

• Avoid people with a cold or the flu.
• Talk to your doctor about a flu vaccine.

Cold Weather and Exercise

• Wear a scarf over your mouth and nose in cold weather.
• Develop a medication plan with your physician that helps you exercise without developing asthma symptoms.

Chemicals: Avoid contact with perfumed products and chemical inhalants.

Summary
These simple control measures can go a long way in preventing a scenario like the one at the beginning of this discussion. The quicker you start implementing some of these measures, the quicker you can bring your asthma under control. Good luck!

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