Although it’s not reasonable to think you can completely eliminate asthma triggers, removing as many as possible from your home and work surroundings can help you enjoy a healthier life with fewer asthma episodes.

In your home

While it may be impossible to remove every trigger from your home, there are many things you can do to give yourself "breathing room":

• Air conditioning. Many airborne triggers can be captured in the filter of an air conditioning unit. If air conditioning every room is not an option for you, a single unit in your bedroom would probably be the best alternative. Be sure filters are changed regularly.
   
• Heating. If your home or apartment has forced-air heating, put a filter or a piece of cheesecloth over each vent to help trap airborne particles. Again, change these filters regularly.
   
• Dust control. Heavy drapes, upholstered furniture, thick rugs, and decorative items are major dust collectors. Try to choose furnishing that can be cleaned easily: vinyl or leather couches, washable lampshades, mini-blinds, and wood or vinyl flooring. Put your favorite decorations in glass-fronted cases or shadow boxes.
   
• Bedding. Choose pillows with Dacron, foam, or other synthetic fillings. Cover your mattress and box spring with allergen-proof covers, and use washable cotton or synthetic bedding. Wash bedding at least once a week in 130ºF water, which is the "HOT" button on most washers. Avoid dust ruffles, which, as their name implies, tend to collect dust and dust mites.
   
• Prevent mold. Keep bathrooms clean and dry; use a fan or dehumidifier. Check food regularly for spoilage. Dry freshly laundered clothes promptly. Remove houseplants, since moist potting soil is a haven for mold.
   
• Pets. Unfortunately, animal dander and saliva are potent allergens. Therefore, at least make your bedroom a "pet-free- zone."
   
• Pest control. Pests, particularly dust mites and cockroaches, can represent significant asthma triggers.
   
• Strong odors. Cigarette smoke and strong odors from perfumes, air fresheners, household cleaners, and other sources can be severely irritating. Limit smoking to the outdoors or to specific rooms, and rooms, and avoid use of strong-smelling cleaners or cosmetics.

In your workplace

Help your coworkers and supervisors understand your asthma; they will be more willing to help control the triggers in your workplace. It may be possible to relocated your work area, or make other changes in your work environment.

• Minimize your exposure to smoke, heavy scents and fumes.
   
• Air conditioners or air filtration systems can be helpful, if they are maintained regularly.
   
• Avoid-potted plants, which can harbor mold.
   
• Take steps to manage tension and stress that can contribute to asthma episodes.

Foods and Medications

• Many processed foods and drinks contain chemicals (sulfites) that are added as preservatives, but can trigger an asthma episode. The most common are dried fruits, fruit juices, vegetable, and wines.
   
• Cheese and dairy products, citrus fruits, tomatoes, seafood, and corn are also foods that may initiate an asthma episode.
   
• Some medication, even the ones you buy over the counter, may also be asthma triggers. Aspirin and aspirin-like products may cause symptoms in people who have chronic sinus problems or nasal polyps. Beta-adrenergic blocking agents (used to treat migraine, rapid heart rate, congestive heart failure, tremor, and glaucoma) are also known to cause asthma episode.

Consult your doctor before you take any drug other than the ones already prescribed for your asthma. Ask about specific foods and drugs you should avoid. And be sure to notify your doctor if you experience any unusual reactions to foods or drugs.

The success of your asthma management program depends on your willingness to take control of your environment- at home, at work, at school, anywhere else you spend time. Work with your doctor to learn more about your personal triggers and how to avoid them.