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What Triggers Your Asthma?
Asthma
cases are on the rise in the United States, with African-Americans,
Hispanics and inner-city dwellers being hit the hardest. The
good news? By learning about your condition and how to prevent
attacks, you'll find that asthma is as manageable as ever.
Homing in on Triggers
Asthma "triggers" -- irritants in the environment --
can cause airways to narrow. This often leads to an asthma attack.
Since triggers vary from person to person, the first step is
learning which ones cause your attacks. Avoiding those triggers
then becomes the crucial task. The most common culprits include:
- Dust and dust mites.
- Pollen from trees, grass or weeds.
- Mold.
- Tobacco smoke.
- Pet dander.
- Cold air or humidity.
Medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, can bring on asthma episodes. An attack also can be prompted by foods, such as eggs, shellfish and wheat. Finally, stress and vigorous exercise can affect asthma.
Take Preventive Action
To dodge many asthma triggers:
- Dust your home often with a damp cloth. Vacuum carpets with machines that have high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters.
- Stay indoors -- with windows closed -- when pollen or mold counts are high.
- Keep your home mold-free. Clean moldy surfaces with bleach.
- Don't smoke and avoid second-hand smoke.
- Keep pets off furniture and carpeting and out of bedrooms.
- On windy days, cover your nose and mouth.
- Control dust mites. Wash blankets, sheets and bedcovers once a week in water hotter than 130 degrees Fahrenheit. Cover mattresses, box springs and pillows in allergen-proof covers.
Serious Attacks Need Medical Attention
Many attacks start slowly. Signs include coughing, wheezing,
shortness of breath or tightness in the chest. If you ignore
these signs, your attack may become life threatening.
You will need immediate medical attention if you develop any one of the following:
- Extreme wheezing and breathlessness.
- Difficulty talking or walking.
- Blue lips and fingernails.
Open, honest communication with your doctor is key to better asthma management. Before each visit, jot down any questions you have. And share information about how often you take your medicines and what concerns you have about them.
For more information about asthma, visit www.southcoast.org/healthtips/asthmaweb/index.htm.
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