Medications can help to prevent asthma attacks and bring them under control, but avoiding asthma triggers is an even better way to avoid asthma symptoms. First, you have to know what triggers your asthma symptoms, so keep a diary to log when asthma symptoms flare and any potential triggers. Asthma triggers can range from pet dander to exercise to smoking, but you can take steps to avoid asthma triggers and prevent an asthma attack.
Step 1
Stay away from smoke. If you have asthma, you should not smoke--but you also should not be around anyone else's clouds of smoke either. Do not allow people to smoke in your house or your car, and if someone lights up near you, walk away.
Step 2
Clean up dust and mold. Dust mites and mold are common asthma triggers, so keep your home clean. Vacuum frequently, and replace rugs and carpets with hardwood or tile when you can. Wash linens, draperies and anything else that could capture mold and dust. Keep moist areas cleaned with a bleach solution to prevent and get rid of mold.
Step 3
Deal with pet dander. If animals trigger your asthma attacks, vacuum floors and furniture frequently to get rid of hair and dander. Keep pets groomed to limit shedding and dander, and consider finding a new home for your pets if you cannot get relief from your asthma.
Step 4
Watch your exercise routine. Exercise is great for your health--even if you have asthma. But if exercising too heavily or exercising in the very cold, very hot or humid weather triggers your asthma attacks, it is time to scale it back. Take it easy if strenuous exercise triggers your asthma symptoms. And if weather is an issue, exercise indoors instead of outside in the elements.
Step 5
Take your asthma medications. Make sure you follow your doctor's instructions for your daily medications to help prevent asthma attacks. Use your emergency asthma inhaler when necessary. If you do not think your medications are effective and you find yourself having frequent asthma attacks, talk to your doctor about a possible change to your medications.
Tips and Warnings
- Foods, illness, stress and other factors may also trigger an asthma attack. Understand what your triggers are and avoid those triggers when you can.
- Make sure that your emergency asthma inhaler is always on hand in case of an asthma attack.
Things You'll Need
- Asthma inhaler
- Asthma medications
- Vacuum cleaner
- Cleaning supplies (bleach, etc.)
- Washing machine
- Dryer
