Take Action
Prevention/Helpful Advice:

• Avoid triggers like tobacco smoke, viruses, pollen
  
• Put allergy covers (i.e., dust mite-proof) on your mattress and pillows.
  
• Wash your sheets in hot water (130°F) every week to control dust mites.
  
• Use an air conditioner during the summer.
  
• Maintain low indoor air humidity (below 50%).
  
• Use vacuum cleaners with HEPA filters
  
• Clean molds from wet areas.
  
• Remove pets from your home (especially from your bedroom).
  
• Ask about getting a flu shot and a vaccine to prevent pneumonia.
  
• See your doctor at least every 6 months. You may need to go more often, especially if your asthma is not under control.
  
• Ask your doctor for a written treatment plan and then be sure to follow it. A written treatment plan will tell you when to take each of your asthma medicines and how much to take. If you have trouble reading small print, ask for your treatment plan (and other handouts) in larger type.
  

  Last updated: 13-May-08