Outdoor Prevention

• Although it is nearly impossible to completely avoid outdoor allergens, there are some things you can do to help prevent contact. Check online local pollen and mold forecasts daily. If counts are high, try to plan for indoor activities and limit your time outside. Avoid pollutants and smog as much as possible as these can easily trigger an asthma attack for many. Cold air is known to exasperate asthma symptoms. If symptoms become severe, you may want to consider wearing a protective mask. Different masks are available to either filter allergic triggers or to prevent the cold air from getting into your lungs.
  
  

Prevention at Home

• There are many measures you can take in the home to prevent asthma from worsening. For pet dander and pollen allergies, be sure to use a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter on vacuums, air purifiers and air conditioners. This powerful filter can remove the micro-sized allergen particles around your house. For severe cases, you may want to consider replacing carpet with flooring. Even with thorough vacuuming, allergens tend to build up and hide in carpets. If dust mites are a problem, cover your bed with special mattress and pillow encasings to keep a barrier between you and the mites.
  
  

Preventative Medications

• The most common prescription for asthma is a fast-acting inhaler, which relaxes the airways and makes your breathing more regular. Preventative medications are very effective in reducing the swelling of the airways and the frequency of attacks. Corticosteroids are one of the most powerful anti-inflammatory medications. Preventatively, they are prescribed in the form of an oral inhaler to be used daily. Another good preventative medication to take is a leukotriene blocker, like Singulair. Leukotrienes are molecules in the body that have the ability to create inflammation by contacting other cells. Taking a daily leukotriene blocker can effectively reduce inflammation as well. Be aware that both of these medications are for long-term use, and neither provides immediate relief.