By: Annie Morgan
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – more than 25 million Americans suffer from asthma.
In fact, studies show that more and more Americans continue to be diagnosed with asthma and the trend continues to increase.
Even more horrific, the Asthma Allergy Foundation of America reports that up to 10 people every single day die from asthma!
These statistics are startling and show asthma is nothing to take lightly.
Wondering just what exactly asthma is?
The Mayo Clinic defines asthma as:
“A condition in which your airways narrow and swell and produce extra mucus. This can make breathing difficult and trigger coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath.
For some people, asthma is a minor nuisance. For others, it can be a major problem that interferes with daily activities and may lead to a life-threatening asthma attack.”
And while everyone has different asthma triggers, there are common allergens many asthma sufferers experience that can be avoided.
If you or someone you know suffers from asthma, check out these common household triggers:
- Dust: Dust can be extremely deadly to those with asthma.
Asthma UK reports nearly 65 percent of people with asthma become triggered by dust.
But even if you keep surface areas clutter-free and dust regularly, dust mites can still be feasting on you where you sleep – and to make it even more disgusting it is their droppings that cause the problem.
If you have asthma – you’ve gotta keep your place clean!
That means washing your sheets weekly and making sure to not leave clothes on the floor (where dust loves to live).
Consider purchasing a good air purifier (I personally have a Dyson) to help filter out dust particles in the air.
And purchase a mattress without springs and make sure to buy a dust mite cover for both your mattress and pillow.
Consider opting for blinds instead of curtains and be sure to vacuum your carpet and sweep your floor weekly to minimize dust.
- Perfume Chemicals: That “sweet smelling” air plug-in in your living room has got to go!
Freedom Health News previously reported on the dangers of so-called “fragrance” products.
“Fragrance” is just another word for “chemicals” and since it is proprietary you have no idea what makes up your fragrance.
Inhaling chemicals 24/7 is bad for your lungs and can certainly lead to an asthma attack.
Switch to fragrance free laundry detergent, give up the candles and air plug-ins, and your lungs are bound to feel better.
- Mold: Many asthma sufferers are triggered by mold. And since mold and fungus are everywhere, it can be difficult to avoid it.
But ignoring mold when you have asthma is simply not an option.
The American Lung Association reported:
“According to Amit Parulekar, M.D., an assistant professor at Baylor College of Medicine and American Lung Association clinical patient care research grantee, people with asthma who are allergic to mold tend to have reduced lung function, increased hospital visits and may even die from asthma-related illnesses. When mold is inhaled, particularly by persons with allergies, mold spores can be perceived as a danger to the immune system and cause an allergic reaction. The airways may constrict, produce more mucus and become red and swollen. This reaction in the airways causes people to experience chest tightness, shortness of breath, wheezing or coughing. “
Make sure to monitor your home humidity levels and keep it below 50 percent. Try to avoid sleeping in the basement, and make sure you aren’t leaving wet towels laying around on the floor – and be sure to regularly clean your bathroom to eliminate mold.
Asthma can have challenges, but it doesn’t have to ruin your life.
Make sure to keep an inhaler on you and take any prescriptions given by your doctor.
But before you jump to pumping your body full of drugs – consider eliminating these household triggers and see how your lungs feel!
Being proactive with your asthma can lead to an overall better quality of life.
What surprised you most about these household triggers?
What do you think is the greatest challenge for someone who has asthma?
Tell us your thoughts in the comments below and be sure to share this article with your friends and family to let them know about these common asthma household triggers!
