With Memorial Day Weekend quickly approaching, we are in the full swing of allergy season. All types of allergens are floating through the air both outside and within your home that can cause a range of allergic reactions. If you have asthma, the spring can be an especially difficult time because many common spring allergens are asthma triggers. Asthma is a respiratory condition that affects people of all ages, and asthma attacks are often triggered by some type of allergic reaction. It is important for those who suffer from asthma to recognize the common triggers and do what they can to prevent asthma attacks.
The IAQ Video Network and Cochrane & Associates released a video in March 2017 called “What is in the Air You Breathe?” This video discusses the main triggers of asthma and what those affected can do to help prevent asthma attacks during allergy season. Visit ServiceMaster DC blog to watch the video.
Included here are some of the highlights of the video that are helpful to those who suffer from asthma.
Asthma Facts According to the 2014 Figures from the CDC
- Over 24 million Americans suffer from asthma (7.7% of population)
- Asthma causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways when triggered.
- In 2014, 3,651 deaths occurred as a result of asthma.
- Asthma treatment costs the U.S. over $50 billion per year.
- Asthma develops during childhood.
Asthma Symptoms
Asthma is a chronic lung disease with symptoms that include coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. These symptoms are reoccurring and are usually the worst in the morning or late at night. Asthma attacks occur when an allergen irritates the lungs and causes the airways to become inflamed and restricted. The shrinking of the airways and buildup of mucous makes it extremely difficult to breathe. Because asthma attacks only happen when someone affected is exposed to an asthma trigger, it is very important to know what these triggers are to avoid them:
- Mold
- Pollen
- Air pollution
- Dust mites
- Tobacco smoke
- Animal dander
- Wood and grass smoke
- Chemicals
- Cockroach allergen
Mold
If you suffer from asthma, make sure you avoid these common asthma triggers, take your medication, and listen to advice from your doctor to prevent asthma attacks from spring allergies. Mold is one common asthma trigger that can be prevented in your home with the right steps. If you suspect that there may be mold in your home or business in the San Francisco area, contact ServiceMaster Disaster Restoration and Recovery right away for mold remediation services. We can effectively remove mold growth from homes and businesses to help reduce the risk of asthma and other mold allergies this spring.
Related articles: 10 Tips for Reducing Mold Allergies
