It is estimated that almost 1 in every 10 children suffers from asthma in the USA. It is a condition that has become increasingly common over the years, and can often prove challenging to manage. The truth is that there are various asthma triggers that can worsen the problem if left unchecked, especially within the home. If you are hoping to reduce your child’s chances of having an attack, here is what to look out for.
Neglected carpets
Contrary to popular belief, carpets are not a no-no for kids who are suffering from asthma and allergies. In fact, carpets can help to trap offending pollutants, dust, and allergens, ultimately removing them from the child’s breathing space. However, if the carpets are not regularly vacuumed and deep cleaned by a professional carpet cleaning company, these harmful molecules are likely to float back into the air and irritate the lungs, which can trigger a worsening of asthma symptoms, and even an asthma attack. Therefore, proper and regular carpet cleaning is an absolute must.
Cooking on an open fire
Cooking on an open fire or on a wood burning stove emits particles called PM2.5 which are known to aggravate the airways in a similar way to traffic pollution outdoors. If smoke seems to trigger your child’s symptoms, do your best to find another means of cooking or ensure that your home is properly ventilated to allow smoke to escape. If you must burn wood, avoid burning damp wood as it tends to give off the highest amount of smoke.
Potent cleaning products
Cleaning products are full of harmful chemicals and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which can increase symptoms associated with asthma. The better course of action is to purchase eco-friendly cleaning products or to make your own using natural ingredients, such as baking soda and vinegar. If you must use strong cleaning products, do so when you know that your child will be out of the house for a longer period of time. This will give the dangerous particles a chance to leave the escape from the indoor air.
Personal care products
Just like cleaning products, personal care products, like perfumes and hair spray, can have a detrimental effect on children who have been diagnosed with asthma. Aside from avoiding using these products altogether, the next best thing is to steer clear of spraying them inside the house. Always do so outside to ensure that the interior’s air quality remains relatively unaffected.
Dust
Even if your child is not allergic to dust itself, it can still aggravate the airways and worsen asthma symptoms. As such, a regular and thorough house cleaning routine is important. Also be sure to invest in a high quality vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter that is designed to stop dust from escaping by trapping it firmly inside. These can cost a bit more, but are well worth the added expense. While you may not always be able to control your child’s asthma triggers, you can control their asthma. Visit aafa.org for more information.