Asthma is a serious, sometimes life-threatening chronic respiratory disease. It affects almost 25 million Americans, including roughly seven million children.
Although there is no current cure for asthma, it can be controlled through medical treatment and managing environmental triggers.
To help those with asthma breathe easier in your home:
- Reduce dust buildup by regularly wiping surfaces with a damp cloth and vacuuming carpet and fabric-covered furniture.
- Clean up messes and spills, and store food in airtight containers to keep cockroaches away. These pesky bugs can trigger asthma.
- Avoid using pesticides. Control pests using baits and traps.
- Don’t allow smoking inside.
- Keep indoor moisture levels low to control mold. Also, wash and dry hard surfaces to prevent mold growth.
- Use exhaust fans when cooking and showering. Fix leaky plumbing and other unwanted water to discourage cockroaches, mold, and dust.
- Keep pets out of the home (or at least the bedroom).
Keep house mites under control by using anti-allergy mattress and pillow covers