-
Remove or control potential
precipitating factors such as:
-
Tobacco smoke
-
Animal allergens (dander, saliva)
-
House-dust Mites, indoor mold,
cockroach allergens
-
Reduce indoor humidity,
remove carpets from bathroom, wash bed sheets
and blankets in hot water (>
130 degrees F) weekly.
-
Outdoor allergens (pollen)
If you are sensitive to these allergens
you should attempt to stay
inside with the windows closed when
the pollen count is high.
-
NSAIDS (Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs)
If you have had episodes of bronchospasm
associated with
ingestion of aspirin or other NSAIDs
(i.e. ibubrofen), then avoid these drugs since
they could trigger a
fatal exacerbation of asthma.
-
Avoid beta-blockers (i.e. propanolol, atenolol, labetalol) since
these drugs since
may also trigger a
fatal exacerbation of asthma.
-
Sulfite sensitivity
If you have
had asthma symptoms after drinking beer, wine,
dried fruits, processed potatoes
or shrimp you may have sulfite sensitivity.
Avoid
foods containing sulfites.
-
Allergic Rhinitis/Sinusitis
If you have rhinitis or sinusitis
then seek treatment with intranasal
corticosteroids. Antihistamines and decongestants may improve allergic rhinitis
symptoms but will not improve asthma symptoms like a corticosteroid.
-
Occupational exposures :
If you have worsening of symptoms during the week and improvement during the
weekends,
then ask to be evaluated for an occupational exposure.
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