How to Make Your Home More Asthma Friendly

Asthma affects almost 60 million people in the United States, causing many individuals to miss work and school. Allergens are the number one cause for asthma symptoms, which can cause an unexpected visit to the emergency room, or hospital. Asthma not only affects those suffering from its symptoms, but also family members and friends that care.

It is important to remember that you are just as responsible to reduce allergens when living with someone with Asthma. There are a number of things you can do in your home to decrease the amount of allergens and to keep those hospital visits at a bear minimum.

Those who suffer from asthma and allergies often come into contact with a trigger that can create symptoms in the lungs. These triggers are caused from particles in the air we breathe. Some common triggers include perfume, smoke, dust mites, pollen, and mold. When choosing cleaning products, keep in mind that any strong fragrance can be a trigger. Look for items that are fragrance-free and contain natural elements instead of toxic chemicals.

Keeping the house clean is essential to diminishing asthma related symptoms. Investing in a high-efficiency particulate air vacuum could be the best way to keep asthma away in the long run. Although more expensive than most vacuums, this particular vacuum contains a filter that traps little particles and prevents them from getting back into the air. Dusting regularly with a damp cloth will also keep allergens at bay.

Despite your efforts to keep the house clean, dust mites and pollen will inevitably get into little cracks and corners. For those who have asthma, carpeted floors are not recommended for this very reason. A solid surface like hardwood, or laminate flooring will help improve your health and will be easier to clean. If you are deciding on a material for flooring, choosing something more natural is always better. The anti-static properties of these materials help prevent dust and dirt from sticking to the floor.

Another important thing to consider when making your home asthma friendly is the quality of your bedding. The average bed contains millions of dust mites, which feed off dead skin. When you breathe, dust mite waste particles can trigger an allergic reaction and even worse, an asthma attack. You may want to consider purchasing dust mite covers for pillows and mattresses to keep these bugs from bothering you. Washing your sheets once a week could also make a huge improvement. You could also buy organic bamboo, or cotton bedding, which is made without chemicals that can cause irritation.

Whether you suffer from asthma, or are trying to make your home a better environment for those with asthma, little things can go a long way. Simply asking someone whom smokes to take it outside, or to place pets in the backyard can all make a huge difference. Cleaning regularly and doing the wash can also decrease the amount of allergens around your home. Consider buying a few potted plants to place indoors. Being conscientious is the key to making your home more asthma friendly.

Sarah Danielson writes for AdvanceMe where you can get a merchant cash advance for your small business.