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(NC)—An 'asthma attack' occurs when one or
more triggers in the environment irritate the lungs and produce
inflammation, mucous and tightening of the bronchial tubes. The
following are a list of common triggers and tips on avoiding an asthma
attack.
Cigarettes: First or second-hand smoke is one
of the worse irritants to the lungs and a major trigger of asthma. The
solution is to make your home environment smoke-free.
Colds: The leading trigger of asthma attacks in
children and many adults is the common cold and upper respiratory
tract infections caused by viruses. Flu shots and maintaining a
healthy lifestyle, may help.
Dust mites: Dust mites appear to be the most
important reason for the increasing rate of asthma in children.
Some strategies to reduce the amount of dust
mites in your home include vacuuming the mattress and pillows every
time the sheets are changed and limiting indoor humidity in the winter
to 40%-50% relative humidity.
Pollen, ragweed or grass: Allergies to these
can lead to excess mucous, restricted breathing, while the pollen acts
as an irritant that can cause swelling of the airways. Avoid drying
clothing outdoors where they may collect pollen. Allergy shots may
also relieve the effects of pollen. People with allergies to grass
should not mow their grass. It's often helpful to keep the windows
closed during the time when the pollen counts are high.
Moulds: Moulds should be cleaned from the
household particularly in the basement and bathroom. The classroom or
office should also be monitored for mould.
Air conditioners should be cleaned regularly
and anti-mould solution should also be added to your humidifier.
Exercise: While physical activity may trigger
an asthma attack, that is not a reason to stop exercising altogether.
Consider slow warm-ups and cool-downs and use your asthma medication
10 minutes before you start your activity.
Animals: Furry animals can be a trigger for
those allergic to fur or dander. Staying away from these types of
animals is the best solution. However, if this is not possible, pets
should be washed on a regular basis and kept out of the bedroom, and
outdoors as much as possible. The person with asthma should not groom
the pet.
To learn more about asthma triggers and how you
can avoid them, call The Lung Association's Asthma Action Helpline at
1-800-668-7682.
- News Canada
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