Asthma A to Z - Asthma Prevention Checklist

Checklist:

1. Avoid strenuous outdoor exercise during high-ozone days.
2. Don't smoke.
3. Avoid inhaling secondhand smoke and chemicals.
4. Do not use a wood-burning stove regularly.
5. Get an annual flu shot.
6. If allergies trigger your asthma, ask your provider about getting allergy shots.
7. Talk to your provider about an appropriate level of exercise.
8. Talk to your provider about how to track your asthma, so you can identify and treat flare-ups immediately.
9. Talk to your provider about additional allergen-reduction measures for mites, mold, cockroaches, pollens and animal dander.
10. If you have seasonal pollen or mold allergies, your provider may suggest that you:
    1. Keep windows closed during high pollination seasons.
    2. Shower and change after performing outdoor activities.
    3. Avoid strenuous outdoor activities in the early morning hours when pollen counts are highest.
    4. Keep track of the pollen count and minimize prolonged outdoor activity when pollen counts are predicted to be high.
11. If you have dust mite allergies, your provider may suggest that you:
    1. Clean your home regularly. Wipe down dusty furniture and vacuum weekly.
    2. Use zippered plastic or allergen-proof fabric covers on your mattresses, pillows and box springs.
    3. Wash your sheets and linens in hot water once a week.
    4. Remove rugs and carpets from your bedroom.
    5. Remove stuffed toys and decorative pillows from your bedroom.
    6. Use a dehumidifier or air conditioner to decrease the humidity in your home and basement.
12. If you have an allergy to animal dander:
    1. Ideally, keep furred pets out of your home.
    2. Keep pets out of the bedroom and living areas.
    3. Wash or rinse your pet once a week.
    4. Install hardwood flooring and, if possible, use HEPA filters.
    5. Talk to your provider or allergist about additional allergen-reduction measures for mites, mold, cockroaches, pollens and animal dander.

Allergens:
For more information about controlling exposure to allergens, please visit the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology at the following links:
Outdoor Allergens Tips
Indoor Allergens Tips