Creating an Asthma-Friendly Environment

Learning that your child has asthma can be a little unsettling, and dealing with a child who constantly has asthma attacks is stressful. However, asthma is quite common in children, and as you know, an attack is generally triggered by some type of allergen. Whether you have a diagnosed child now or are pregnant and taking measures to help prevent the condition, these tips will help you create a healthier asthma-friendly environment.

 

Don’t Use a Wood-burning Fireplace 

Many years ago, most homes were heated with a traditional wood-burning fireplace. Today, we are more educated and know that not only are the toxins in smoke damaging to the environment, they are a leading cause of asthma attacks. Fortunately, thanks to bio ethanol burners and grates (found at sites like EthanolFireplacePros.com), you can transform that wood-burning fireplace into one that is safe for the environment and asthma sufferers.

Destroy Dust Mites

You are probably thinking there is no way you have dust mites because you are a cleaning fanatic, right? Well, sorry to tell you that these microscopic spider relatives can be present in a clean home. They thrive in humidity and feed on shed skin.

Buy dust mite-proof covers for mattresses and pillows. Store stuffed animals in tightly sealed containers and wash them frequently. You probably already vacuum carpets daily, but you should vacuum cloth furniture, as well.

Dealing with Pets

It is a proven fact that children exposed to pets as a baby rarely develop allergies toward them. The Department of Pediatrics at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health states that exposure to furry pets from birth influences the child’s immune development. So, if you are trying to decide whether to get a pet before your baby is born or wait until they are older, you are better to get one before (you can always adopt another one later, too).

All that being said, keep in mind that pets can bring outdoor allergens inside. For example, a dog running through the milkweed at the park will bring that pollen indoors. Get in the habit of brushing daily and wet a paper towel or wash cloth and wipe them down when they come inside.

Strong Odors

Air fresheners, cleaners, perfume, etc., can trigger asthma attacks. Use fragrance-free products. If you want to use a scented product opt for one that is natural. You can always soak orange, lime, or lemon peels in a solution of vinegar and water for a fresh-smelling, citrus cleaner.

Close the Window

It is a beautiful summer day with a lovely breeze. You turn off the air conditioning and open the windows, and absolutely love the fresh air blowing through. However, if your child is allergic to pollen you could be making a trip to the emergency room later. Late spring until mid-summer, pollen levels are the highest, so windows should be kept shut, if possible. By late summer or early fall you should be able to enjoy that breeze.

Use a Dehumidifier 

Mold can trigger asthma attacks. Unfortunately, you don’t always see it. Mold grows in damp or wet areas, feeding on paper, wood, wallpaper paste, etc. Keeping the humidity level below 50 percent in the home will help prevent mold from growing.