Medical Guides

Avoidance of triggers

In patients with asthma airways tend to narrow too easily and too much. This tendency is present all the time, and leads to ‘attacks’ which are brought on by various triggers. Therefore once a patient of asthma is aware of triggers which bring about an asthma attack he can eliminate or reduce the exposure to triggers and avoid asthma attacks. Some suggestions to avoid triggers are:
Pollens
Pollens are seasonal and it is difficult to avoid exposure to them during the pollen season. However, patient should:

•    Stay indoors during the midday and afternoon when the pollen count is high.
•    Use air-conditioning, if possible.
•    Keep windows closed on windy days in the pollen season.

Moulds

Moulds grow best in warm damp conditions, e.g. damp floors and ceilings, musty cupboards, household plants and shower recesses. Patient should:
•    Avoid sources of moulds (wet leaves, garden debris).
•    Keep bathrooms, kitchens, and basements well aired.
•    Keep the house as dry as possible; good ventilation is essential.
•    Regular cleaning of the house will minimise mould growth.

House Dust Mites

To prevent asthma attacks due to mites:
•    Encase the mattress in an airtight cover.
•    The pillow should be covered with an airtight cover.
•    Avoid sleeping or lying on upholstered furniture.
•    Bed covers, clothes, and stuffed toys should be washed once a week in boiling water.
•    Carpets should be removed from the bedroom.
•    Do not stay in a room while it is being cleaned.

Animals

The allergen is in the saliva, urine and dander. (Flakes in the skin, hair, or feathers of all warm-blooded pets including dogs, cats, birds and rodents). Patient should:

•    Not keep pets. However, if they have pets, they should be kept outside the house
•    Avoid visits to friends or relatives with pets.
•    Take asthma medicine (cromolyn or beta 2-agonist; cromolyn is often preferred) before visiting homes or sites where animals are present.
•    Avoid products made with feathers, for example, pillows.

Tobacco Smoke

•    People with asthma must not smoke.
•    Avoid smoky rooms as much as possible.
•    Do not allow smoking in the home and encourage family members to quit smoking.