- Although avoiding outdoor triggers completely may be impossible, there are some preventative measures that you can take to limit your exposure. Check online pollen and mold forecasts daily. When counts are high, try to schedule activities for indoors and limit your time outside. If your condition is severe and environmental triggers tend to aggravate your symptoms, consider wearing a protective mask. Masks are not only helpful in filtering harmful allergens, but can also help keep cold air from entering your lungs.
- Preventing asthma from getting worse at home is simple. Be sure to use HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters on vacuums and air purifiers. This powerful filter is known to remove micro sized allergens, like pet dander and pollen. For severe cases of asthma, you may want to consider removing any carpets and replacing them with flooring. Allergens tend to build up in carpets, even with thorough vacuuming. It is also recommended to wear a protective mask while cleaning. Dust and the smell of harsh cleaning solutions can easily bring on an asthma attack. If dust mites are a problem, encase your mattress and pillow with special coverings to prevent any contact.
- Preventative medications are one of the most important forms of reducing asthmatic symptoms. One of the best anti-inflammatory medications are corticosteroids. Used in the form of an oral inhaler for asthma, this preventative medication can decrease inflammation of the airways over time. Another effective medication is a leukotriene blocker like Singulair. Leukotrienes are molecules that have the capability of producing inflammation by signalling other cells. Taking a leukotriene blocker can halt that ability. Both of these medications are prescribed to be taken daily, and are not meant to provide immediate relief.
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