Asthma - Avoiding The Common Triggers

 
Asthma acts up when an asthmatic person comes into contact with one or more "triggers" in the environment. These asthma triggers irritate the lungs and produce mucous, inflammation, and tightening of the bronchial tubes.

Here is a list of common asthma triggers and tips on avoiding bouts with asthma:

• Smoking: Smoke (either first or second-hand) is one of the worst irritants to the lungs and it's a major trigger of asthma. The best solution is to simply make your home environment smoke-free.
   
• Colds: The common cold and upper respiratory tract infections caused by viruses are the leading trigger of asthma in children and many adults. Getting Flu shots and maintaining a healthy, balanced lifestyle may help prevent a bout with asthma.
   
• Dust mites: These tiny creatures appear to be a big reason for the increasing rate of asthma in children. You can reduce the number of them in your home by vacuuming your mattress and pillows every time you change your sheets. You should also limit indoor relative humidity in the winter to 40%-50%.
   
• Grass, pollen, or ragweed: Allergies to these can cause restricted breathing and excess mucous. Pollen acts as an irritant that can cause swelling of the airways, bringing on a bout with asthma.
  
  Don't dry clothing outside because it may collect pollen. Allergy shots may help also. If you're prone to asthma, you shouldn't mow grass. Keep your windows closed during times of high pollen counts.
   
• Molds: Molds should be kept cleaned from the household, especially in the bathrooms and basement. Classrooms and offices should also be checked for mold periodically. Clean your air conditioners regularly.
   
• Exercise: Although strenuous physical activity can trigger asthma, you shouldn't stop exercising altogether. Perform slow warm-ups and cool-downs and be sure to use your asthma medication approximately ten minutes before you begin your exercise routine.
   
• Animals: Furry pets can trigger asthma as well. Simply staying away from furry animals is the best solution. But if this isn't possible, they should be washed on a regular basis and kept out of the house as much as possible (especially out of the bedroom). A person with asthma should never groom a pet.

Article courtesy of NewsCanada.

More Interesting Articles