Do you take inhaled corticosteroids? Rinse mouth immediately after inhaling even when using a spacer. DO NOT swallow rinse water.
Are you allergic to dust mites? Encase even new mattresses, box springs, and pillows in zipped allergen-proof covers as they quickly become infested with dust mites.
Are you allergic to dust mites and mold? Moisture increases both of these allergens.
Keep indoor humidity between 25 and 50 percent.
Do not lay carpet on concrete/cement; moisture from the concrete can keep the carpet damp.
Have you had an acute asthma flare? Avoid strenuous activity for a day or two following an acute asthma flare or attack.
Do you exercise outdoors? When breathing fast and through the mouth during exercise, one can inhale more allergens and irritants than usual.
Do you use eye drops? When using topical eye medicines, do not touch the eyelid or surrounding area with the dropper tip to avoid contamination of tip and solution.
What are some maintenance tips that can reduce mold exposure? Use exhaust fans in bathrooms.
Repair leaky plumbing.
Empty the drip pan under the refrigerator.
Air out dark spaces under sinks.
Wash and dry wet clothing and towels promptly or hang to dry until they can be laundered.
Spread out the shower curtain across the shower rod in order for it to dry following a shower.
What fall activities may increase mold exposure? Raking leaves
Walks in the woods
Fall camping trips
Fall planting
Spreading pine straw
Handling fire wood
How can ear or sinus pressure be reduced during air travel? Taking a short-acting decongestant by mouth or using an over-the-counter decongestant nasal spray (like Afrin®) 30 minutes prior to flight will help sinus or ear discomfort. On a long flight, use a decongestant 30 minutes prior to descent which is when the pressure problem occurs. If possible, avoid flying during and shortly after acute sinus or ear infections. Chewing gum, swallowing, or sipping water may decrease ear or sinus pressure.
