Asthma is the most common childhood respiratory disease, accounting for about 10 million lost school days annually. It’s cold outside and we’re all spending more time inside. If your child has environmental allergies, indoor triggers may worsen their asthma this Winter. Minor adjustments to your everyday routine can yield enormous results when it comes to preventing asthma attacks. How you ask?
First let’s review common asthma triggers during the Winter:
- cold air
- colds and upper respiratory tract infections (Flu, Covid-19, RSV)
- dust mites and their droppings
- physical exertion (especially if strenuous and in cold air)
- fungal spores
- fumes (e.g., paint)
- smoking/vaping in the car and indoors
- air conditioning/heating
- air pollution, including atmospheric ozone
- animal saliva, urine and dander
- bacteria
- cleaning supplies/ chemicals (particularly bleach, air purifiers, incense, and ammonia)
- drugs (especially aspirin, beta blockers)
- cockroaches
As you can see, many of these causes are found in the home. So how can we do a better job fighting asthma in our indoor environments this Winter?
Here are some tips:
- Dust frequently.
- Do not smoke or vape inside
(If there are family members how smoke or vape inside the home, use an air purifier) - Vacuum frequently; use a cylinder vacuum instead of an upright model. Using a HEPA, or high efficiency particulate air, vacuum is optimum. These vacuums are equipped with high-spec pre-filter and filter systems; they are sealed, allergen-free and designed to remove and trap allergens such as bacteria and mold-filled dust that normal vacuums cannot.
- Clean carpeting and drapes regularly. Carpet is a huge hideout for asthma allergens, harboring dust mites and pet dander–the two most common triggers of childhood asthma.
- Replace carpeting with non-fibrous flooring, such as tile or hardwood, particularly in the bedroom.
- Replace feather pillows and down comforters with those containing synthetic fibers; use a plastic mattress cover.
- Wash bedding in hot water (130 degrees Fahrenheit) to kill dust mites and remove allergens. Alternately, you can place bedding in an airtight container for 48 hours.
- Place stuffed toys in the freezer for 24 hours or in an airtight container for 48 hours to kill dust mites.
- Wear a scarf or mask over your nose and mouth in cold weather.
- Wear a mask when around people who are sick
- Get your Flu Vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine.
- Always keep your medication with you in case of an attack.
- Using an air filter can also help prevent asthma attacks. Following are some different options:
- Use an HEPA air filter. They feature a minimum particle removal efficiency of 99.97% for all particles 0.3 microns in diameter and larger. This size covers most pollen, mold spores, animal hair and dander, dust mites, bacteria, smoke particles and dust. They are classified according to the technology they utilize to remove different-sized particles from the air. Certain models use a chemical process, such as ozonization, to purify the air.
I hope you have a Healthy Holiday Season and Happy New Year!
Be Well,
Dr. JoiMD