Asthma Triggers

Know what "triggers" make your asthma symptoms worse. Then, do what you can to avoid or limit contact with them. If any of these triggers are a problem for you, here are some hints.

Animal Dander

• Keep your pet out of the house
• Keep your pet out of your bedroom
• Wash your pet often
• If these things don't help, you may have to find your pet a new home

Smoking

• Do not smoke or allow smoking in your home
• Avoid places where there is smoking

Pollen

• Stay indoors with the windows closed when the pollen count is high

Dust Mites

• Wash sheets, blankets, pillows, and stuffed toys once a week in hot water
• Get special dust proof covers for your mattress and pillows

Cockroaches

• Keep your home as clean as possible
• Store foods in proper containers
• If problem persists, consider using a pest management service

Cold Air

• If cold air bothers you, wear a scarf over your mouth and nose in the winter

Physical Activity

• If you have asthma symptoms when you exercise or during routine physical activities like climbing stairs, work with your Primary Care Practitioner/Family Practitioner to find ways to be active without having asthma symptoms

Sulfites

• If you are allergic to sulfites, avoid foods and beverages with sulfites, like dried fruit and wine