Asthma triggers are
in the air all around me. How can I avoid them?
 You may find it difficult to control triggers in
the air you breathe, particularly when you are outdoors. Try
to avoid going outside when air pollution, pollen and mold spore
levels are high. If you must go out, wear a mask that covers
your nose and mouth.
The air in your home is easier to control.
These tips can help:
- Use air conditioning so you can keep windows
and doors closed against pollen and mold spores. Air conditioning
also lowers indoor humidity, which helps control mold and dust
(see "Dust Mites: Tiny but Troublesome").
- Install a special filter in your central
air conditioning and heating unit to help remove offending particles
from the air. Another option is a freestanding air-cleaning unit
with a high-efficiency particulate (HEPA) filter that removes
dust, mold and pollen.
- To get rid of mold, make sure that your
bathroom, kitchen and basement are clean and have good air circulation.
Set your humidifier to 25-50 percent humidity. A dehumidifier
will help prevent mold and control dust, particularly in your
basement. Empty the collected water from your dehumidifier and
clean the container often.
- Sleep on foam pillows with airtight
covers to prevent mold from forming when you perspire, or wash
your pillows weekly. Replace pillows every year.
- If you cannot control mold on your houseplants,
keep them outdoors.
- Wear a dust mask when vacuuming, or purchase
a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter and special collection bags.
- Do not use a fireplace or wood stove.
- Ask family members and visitors not to
smoke in your home.
- Remove pets from your home if they trigger
symptoms—even birds, hamsters and guinea pigs may cause
problems. If you choose to keep a pet to which you are allergic,
make sure it stays out of your bedroom. Bathing your pet weekly
or brushing it frequently may also help.
- Cockroaches can cause problems because
their droppings collect in house dust, triggering attacks in
sensitive individuals. Clean thoroughly and follow the hints
in "Dust Mites: Tiny but Troublesome."
- Avoid strong odors or fumes from room
deodorizers, cleaning chemicals, perfume, paint and talcum powder.
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