Ways to Avoid Asthma

A person cannot avoid asthma, only its effects. Once a person has asthma, he can have an attack at any time. But there are a number of things they can do to prevent an asthma attack. One of the best ways to prevent an asthma attack is staying away from certain irritants (i.e., cigarette smoke) or allergens (i.e., tree pollen) that can potentially trigger an asthma attack. A person can also take certain medications to prevent or minimize the effects of asthma. And avoiding certain foods can prevent an asthma attack if a person is allergic to them.

Avoidance & Air Filtration

• If you are allergic to pollen or mold, it is best to stay indoors on days when the pollen or mold count is high. Information on pollen and mold count is usually listed in the newspaper or on television reports. Ratings for both can be mild, moderate or high. High pollen and mold counts can make your more susceptible to asthma problems. Also, keep your windows and doors closed on days when the pollen and mold counts are high, which is usually during the summer months. Run the air conditioner and use air filters such as HEPA or ionic filters. They can be highly effective in eliminating household pollen and mold.

Antihistamines, Nasal Sprays & Inhalers

• Your allergies can be controlled by antihistamines, which minimize the inflammatory responses of histamines in the body that react to specific allergens. Inflammation can occur in the nasal passages and lungs, and mucus in the lungs can spur asthma problems. Medications such as Tavist and Claritin are types of antihistamines that can help you avoid asthma. You may also need a decongestant such as Sudafed, too (helps clear you up). Over-the-counter nasal sprays such as Nasalcrom can help mitigate allergy symptoms that can cause asthma attacks. Your doctor can also prescribe coriticosteroids such as Flonase or Advair. Flonase is a nasal spray that can block the effects of certain allergens that cause asthma symptoms. Advair is an inhaler that controls inflammation and constriction of air passages in the lungs.

Food & Chemical Allergies

• It is not uncommon for a person to have asthma problems because of food allergies. If you are allergic to any common food allergens such as milk, wheat, soy or yeast, your diet may be causing breathing problems related to asthma. Moreover, certain household chemicals and perfumed soaps and shampoos can be causing your asthma symptoms. If you notice any sensitivities after bathing or doing the laundry (itchy eyes, shortness or breath), you may be allergic to certain chemicals (i.e., glycerin or formaldehyde) that can spur asthma problems. If you suspect any food or chemical allergies, it is best to have an allergist test you for them. Meanwhile, use greener products such as Seventh Generation or those that contain no dyes or perfumes.

Masks

• If you need to be outside during days when the pollen count is high or around any irritants (i.e., paint) at home or work, wear a mask. You can buy a variety of masks at any hardware or paint store. Keep them handy in your car in case you need them, even in traffic (i.e., gas fumes).