Asthma Triggers

People with asthma are not all bothered by the same triggers. Here are some common ones. Which ones bother you? Click on them and find out how to get rid of them so you can breath easier.

Having a cold makes it difficult for every one to breathe. If you have asthma, a cold can make your asthma worse. Avoid contact with anyone who has cold symptoms. Wash your hands regularly, and keep your hands away from your eyes, nose and mouth. Get your rest and be sure to eat and drink plenty of water. Your doctor may want you to get a flu shot. (They don't hurt.) If you have a cold, check with your doctor to see if using a vaporizer at night will help you breathe easier. Too much moisture can trigger your asthma, so be sure to allow the room to dry out during the day.

Pollen from plants

While they might be pretty to look at, flowers, trees and shrubs can touch-off a bout with asthma. Keep fresh flowers out of your home and bedroom. During peak pollen season (May, June, August and September), plan indoor activities as often as possible. You may pick up plant pollen just by being outside. If you have to play or work outside, remember to wear a hat and take a shower and wash your hair as soon as you go back inside to get rid of the pollen that aggravates your asthma. When traveling, drive with your windows closed and air conditioning on.

Mold likes damp areas of your house such as basements, bathrooms, kitchens and windows that get wet in the winter. Wipe down window sills, bathroom sinks and tubs and other areas where mold grows using a cleaning solution of soap and five percent bleach. Use dehumidifiers to take the moisture out of rooms like the bedroom.

Breathing in cold air can irritate your airways. Be sure to protect yourself from the cold winter air by dressing warmly. Wear a hat on your head and use a scarf to cover your nose and mouth. The scarf will act as a filter and warm the air before it gets into your lungs.

Being active, playing games and exercising is good for you. It keeps you healthy, and builds friendships and your muscles. Talk to your doctor about what activities are best for you. Follow his or her advice, and remember to take your medicine and have fun!

Pet dander (dead skin flakes) is found on every furry animal and can set-off your asthma. If your family is attached to your pet, and if having someone else adopt it isn't an option, you can: have another family member brush the pet outdoors or someplace where flying dander won't be a problem; have someone bathe the pet once a week to keep the dander down; and keep the pet out of rooms where you are often, for example your bedroom. You might consider getting a non-furry pet like a turtle, fish or snake instead.

On to Asthma Triggers Continued