Indoor Asthma TriggersIndoor asthma triggers are contaminants that can set off asthmatic reactions in people who have asthma or breathing problems According to information from The American Lung Association it is estimated that 20 million Americans have asthma (2002 report). Typical indoor asthma triggers found in the home are common house dust, dust mites, mold, animal dander, tobacco smoke, pet dander and combustion appliances. There are ways to reduce exposure to these triggers. The first step is elimination of the pollutants if possible. Dust mites are found in mattresses, pillows, bed covers, carpets, upholstered furniture, clothes and fabric. Covering mattresses with impermeable matress and pillow case covers Control dust by frequent mopping and dusting with damp mops and cloths, furniture, hard floors and walls. If you have carpeting or upholstered furniture, vacuum with
Use natural household cleaners instead of common, off-the-shelf cleaners. If you must have a pet, try to keep it out of the bedroom and off your furniture and bathe your pet as often as your vet suggests. DON'T EVER use an unvented appliance such as a portable (oil, kerosene or gas) heaters or unvented fireplaces indoors. They not only produce asthma triggers but can also produce dangerous carbon monoxide levels. If you have a gas oven in your kitchen you should use a ventilator that is vented to the outdoors when in use. If that isn't possible, at least open a window while you bake. NEVER use a gas oven for space heating! The no-brainer recommendation of the day is NO SMOKING IN THE HOUSE. Ongoing air filtration and air purification of the indoor air in addition to the above recommendations can go a long way in reducing most indoor asthma triggers. If you are being treated or are currently suffering from asthma or allergies, you might want to visit Susan Millar's web site. Susan suffered from and was treated for asthma and severe allergies for more than 40 years. Tired and frustrated from the side effects of asthma drugs and antihistamines, she conducted intensive research from internationally respected medical journals and libraries and found a safe and highly effective alternative for relief from asthma and allergies. Click here to read Susan's personal story.
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