About 16.4 million U.S. adults and 7 million children currently suffer from asthma, states the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A severe asthma attack can cause death if not rapidly treated. The largest component of treating asthma is to avoid sources that will cause an attack, or asthma triggers. As most Americans spend 90 percent of their time indoors, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, asthma sources in the home and office need to be addressed.
Air Pollution
The CDC states that secondhand smoke is a lung irritant; no one should smoke in the home of someone who has asthma or in any other areas such as a car or work area.
High levels of outdoor air pollution can also set off an attack. Living in areas where wild fires are common may be unhealthy for an asthma sufferer. Radio and news announcements help report on the status of the outside air and smog content, helpful info for the asthma sufferer who should choose to stay indoors on smog alert days.
Indoor Allergies
Indoor allergens include everything from pets to pests to mold. Furry pets particularly cause allergies and asthma attacks. It is important to not have furry pets in the home or to make sure the pets do not sleep in the same bedroom as the asthma sufferer. Vacuuming often will not only help decrease pet allergens but also keep dust mites at bay. Dust mites are everywhere in the home but buying special mattress and pillow covers while keeping items such as stuffed animals out of the room will help with any potential dust mite asthma attacks. Keeping areas of the house prone to dampness, such as the bathroom or underground basement, well aerated will keep the mold down. The CDC recommends keeping the house humidity levels between 35 to 50 percent.
Weather
Changes in weather cause changes in air pressure which may effect the lungs of those with asthma. Kid's Health states wind and rain are two common weather triggers as the rain will cause pollen and other irritants to fall to the ground while the wind will pick it up and circulate it in the air. Otherwise extremes of temperature such as high heat and humidity or cold temperatures can irritate the lungs and set off an attack. It is important to learn which weather patterns are the most irritating so precautions can be taken.
Exercise
For some people, children especially, exercise is the only source of an asthma attack. KidsHealth states 80 to 90 percent of people experience asthma symptoms while exercising. Since exercise is important to overall health as well as lung health, however, exercise is not discouraged. Rather, medications are recommended before and during the activity to prevent a serious attack.
Stress
The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology states that emotional stress can be the source of an asthma attack. Addressing health with proper rest, diet and exercise will help keep emotional health in check.
