Six tips to avoid spring asthma triggers

As the weather warms up March through June, trees and grass begin to release their pollen – which is a major trigger of asthma attacks. High pollen counts are associated with an increase in asthma-related hospital visits in the springtime. Try these tips to prevent a spring asthma flare up:

1. Avoid outside activity in the mornings. Daily pollen counts peak in the morning usually between 4 a.m. – 10 a.m., so if you plan to exercise or spend time outdoors, consider doing it later in the day.
2. Check the local pollen count before doing yard or garden work. Try to do your gardening when the pollen count is lowest, and consider wearing a particle mask.
3. Use your medications as prescribed. Limiting your exposure to asthma triggers is not the same as avoiding them entirely. Make sure to use your controller medications as prescribed, and have a quick-relief medication on hand.
4. Take a shower and change your clothing after spending time outside to get rid of the pollens that may have stuck to your body and clothing.
5. Use air conditioning in your home and car rather than opening the windows.
6. Wash your sheets and blankets in hot water and vacuum upholstered furniture and carpets weekly.

Sources:
“Don't Fear Spring Allergies and Asthma.” American Lung Association, 14 Apr. 2016. 
“Five Things You Should Know about Spring Allergies.” American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.