Iowa Asthma Triggers

Living in Iowa, many things can trigger allergies and asthma such as fresh cut grass, pollen or harvest season, which is right around the corner.  Our allergies cause watery eyes, sneezing, runny nose or all the above! But, what happens when someone you know starts having an asthma attack? What triggers their attack?  Hammer Medical will go over how asthma triggers causes an asthma attack.

Asthma triggers cause you to experience an asthma attack. Everybody who has asthma may be sensitive or react to things differently. Asthma triggers differ from person to person based on where you live and what you’re exposed to on a daily basis.  If you can control your asthma, the best thing to do is avoid triggers whenever possible.

Asthma attacks can be triggered by:

• Tobacco Smoke – Secondhand smoke is created by a smoker then breathed in by you.  Try to avoid being around smokers and never smoke when you have asthma; not a good combination.
• Dust
• Air Pollution – car exhaust or factories that release fumes could cause an attack.  There are websites that monitor air quality and will tell you when levels will be low.
• Cockroaches – Yes, we said it, cockroaches.  Cockroaches and their droppings cause attacks.  Cockroaches are found in your kitchen or where crumbs of food are.  Clean or pick up food so cockroaches don’t make your home, their home.
• Mold – Mold can appear anywhere in your home or even with food.  Humidity causes mold to grow in your home. An air conditioner or dehumidifier can keep the humidity low.
• Pets – Try to bathe your pets weekly and keep them outside as much as possible.  If attacks continue, consider getting a different pet.
• Basic sicknesses – flu, colds, sinus infections
• Exercise
• Emotions – breathing heavy

Nobody can control when an asthma attack will happen.  Hopefully, you’ll take into consideration Hammer Medical’s tips on how to avoid asthma triggers and how to lessen your chances of an asthma attack.  Hammer Medical carries a full line of home medical equipment.  Take a look at our online catalog to see all of our products!