Six tips to avoid spring asthma triggers
GEHA | August 20, 2018
Try these tips to prevent asthma attacks.
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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Use air conditioning in your home and car rather than opening the windows.
- 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.