Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease, often arising
from allergies, that is characterized by sudden recurring
attacks of labored breathing, chest constriction and coughing.
There is currently no cure available for asthma, however new
discoveries in the medical research field are increasing the
medications and techniques used to monitor and treat asthma
in patients with the disease.
Aspects of modern homes that affect the environment including
air pollution, exposure to and the eating of processed foods,
central heating systems, and double-glazed windows make an ideal
breeding situation for dust mites. These environmental concerns
are thought to be major contributing factors to the increasing
number of asthma cases in the world today. They also contribute
to the severity of asthma cases, and the number of attacks
suffered by an individual patient.
Different materials within the home may trigger attacks or
irritate symptoms in asthma patients:
House-Dust Mites
It is the dropping of these tiny insects the trigger
asthma symptoms, and not the insect itself. They frequently
live inside of bedding, soft furnishings and stuffed toys in
addition to in the fiber of carpet.
If a patient has a known problem with dust-mites,
doing the following might alleviate some of the resulting symptoms:
Frequently dust all surfaces in the home; even consider using
an attachment for the vacuum cleaner.
Leave floors uncarpeted.
Use plastic or other forms of coverings mattress, duvet
cover and pillows.
Use a dehumidifier; this makes it nearly impossible for
house-dust mites to survive.
Vacuum frequently. Use a good vacuum cleaner with a heap filter that
does not scatter dust into the air. Better, ask someone else to vacuum
while you stay out of the room.
Do not use stuffed animals in the home.
Use hot water (60 degrees C) when laundering sheets,
duvet covers and even pillowcases at least weekly.
Carpets and Furnishings
Carpets can contain formaldehyde gas from the manufacturing
process. If you are buying a new carpet, request that the carpet
be unrolled and aired out before bringing it home.
People with latex allergies should never purchase carpet
that has a foam underlay.
For the same reasons above, if purchasing new furniture
it is advisable to air the furniture in the garage for a few days,
if possible, before moving it into the living space
within the house.
Asthmatics with pet dander allergies should ensure that
the interior of a newly purchased home is cleaned entirely
prior to their moving in. Removing as much as possible of
the allergen reduces the risk of symptoms and asthma attacks.
Cleaning, decorating, building work and repairs
Chemicals known as volatile organic compounds (VOC) can be
irritants and triggers for asthmatics. Many household cleaning
products, glues and other items contain VOCs.
The EPA gives the following information about VOCs on
their website, www.epa.gov:
Volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) are emitted as
gases from certain solids or liquids. VOCs include a variety
of chemicals, some of which may have short- and long-term
adverse health effects. Concentrations of many VOCs are
consistently higher indoors (up to ten times higher) than
outdoors. VOCs are emitted by a wide array of products
numbering in the thousands. Examples include: paints and
lacquers, paint strippers, cleaning supplies, pesticides,
building materials and furnishings, office equipment such
as copiers and printers, correction fluids and carbonless
copy paper, graphics and craft materials including glues
and adhesives, permanent markers, and photographic
solutions.
Organic chemicals are widely used as ingredients
in household products. Paints, varnishes, and wax all
contain organic solvents, as do many cleaning, disinfecting,
cosmetic, degreasing, and hobby products. Fuels are made up of
organic chemicals. All of these products can release organic
compounds while you are using them, and, to some degree, when
they are stored.
A Brief list of household objects and chemicals that can
have VOCs as part of their construction includes:
Furniture polish, air fresheners and carpet cleaners
in liquid spray form. Using solid or liquid alternatives is
recommended, along with ensuring proper ventilation. Decorating:
To date, there has been little medical research on the many
chemicals used in renovating or decorating a home.
Wet paint might irritate the air passages of an asthmatic
Steps for avoiding exposure to harmful household chemicals of
all sorts, particularly those containing VOCs are:
Increasing ventilation
Not storing opened containers of unused paints and
similar materials inside of the house.
Most chemicals are made in such a way that the levels
of VOCs cannot be accurately measured. Formaldehyde can be
measured, however. If the chemical cannot be removed from
the home, it is important to apply a sealant on all affected
and exposed surfaces.
Pest repellants are another common chemical irritant;
there are integrated pest management methods that allow homeowners
the ability to reduce the dependency on pesticides.
Use household products according to manufacturer's directions.
Make sure you provide plenty of fresh air when using these products.
Throw away unused or little-used containers safely; buy in
quantities that you will use soon.
Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Never mix household care products unless directed on the label.
