Infections
Respiratory viruses and sinus
infections can make asthma worse.
In fact, viral infections such as cold
and flu are the most common triggers
in young children and can be just as
dangerous for adults.
Outdoor Triggers
Tree, grass, and weed pollens and
outdoor mold can trigger asthma,
as can air pollution, smoke, and car
exhaust.
What can you do?
•
Get a flu shot every year and
ask your health-care provider
about whether you should have a
pneumonia vaccine.
•
Be sure you and everyone in your
household wash hands frequently.
•
See your health-care provider
for immediate treatment if you
suspect an infection. Often, you
will need more of your regular
asthma medicines until the
infection clears.
•
Don’t ignore a drippy nose. Talk
to your health-care provider about
medicines you can take to reduce
the drainage.
•
Don’t share toothbrushes or
toothpaste when you have a cold.
•
If your child gets viral infections
every year, ask your health-care
provider about asthma medicines
before the flu season to prevent
asthma attacks.
How can you prevent exposure to
outdoor triggers?
•
Keep the doors and windows to
your house shut, with heating
or air conditioning running,
particularly during times when
outdoor triggers are present.
•
Avoid outdoor activities during high
pollen or ozone hours.
•
If allergic to pollen, use allergy
medicines to reduce reactions.
•
Shower to wash away pollen when
you come inside after spending
time outdoors.
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