Things You Should Avoid To Prevent Asthma Attacks
Asthma is a respiratory condition that makes breathing difficult and also results from exposure to different environmental factors such as allergens, dust, etc. Inhaling such irritants may lead to temporary constriction of the airways thus causing shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing and also chest tightness.
Unfortunately, this particular condition doesn’t have a cure. The only option that asthma patients have is to accept the fact that they have to live with it. Knowing what causes the attacks and avoiding them can definitely help make this particular condition more tolerable. Below are asthma triggers that all asthma patients should avoid:
What triggers Asthma?
Dust
Dust normally causes havoc to asthma patients due to its allergy-inducing properties. Therefore, it is important to ensure that high levels of hygiene are always maintained and that all rooms are kept dust-free at all times. This can be accomplished by thoroughly vacuuming the whole room including every corner and opening.
Flowers
The pollen from flowers may trigger asthma attacks and needs to be avoided at all costs. Growing plants indoors could be hazardous too, since mold, which triggers asthma, may begin sprouting. To prevent the formation of molds, avoid overwatering plants and keep them in an open, sunny place and regularly remove the dead parts as soon as they come into view.
Pets
Research shows that contact with dogs or cats is dangerous for asthma patients. In addition to that, the particles of hair, small pieces of fur, skin and even saliva all trigger asthma attacks. Even if the pets are not physically close to your, their hair or fur may be present in your environment and may cause serious risks.
Smoking
The smoke from cigarettes contains gases and chemicals that may irritate the airways in the lungs. Smoking increases the chance of getting asthma. Various symptoms such as wheezing and coughing become more serious when one smokes. Children whose mothers smoked during pregnancy have an increased risk of wheezing and also worse lung function.
Extreme weather
Extremely cold weather or humid weather normally triggers asthma attacks. Even though the weather is beyond our control, asthma patients should avoid exposing themselves to fluctuating temperatures within a short period.
Food Allergies
The most common foods that are associated with allergic symptoms include cow’s milk, fish, eggs, wheat, peanuts, shrimp, soy, etc. Food preservatives such as sodium sulfite, potassium bisulfite and sodium bisulfite can also trigger asthma attacks.
Anti-inflammatory drugs
Prescription drugs such as steroid-free anti-inflammatory drugs like beta blockers or ibuprofen and also aspirin may cause asthma attacks. Always inform your doctor that you are suffering from asthma before prescribing you medicine.
