Health Tips for October 29

Health Tip: What's Behind My Asthma and Allergy Symptoms?

While allergies and asthma usually are chronic, symptoms can flare from exposure to certain triggers. The American Lung Association says these factors trigger asthma and allergy symptoms in many people: Anything with powerful fumes, such as hair spray, paint or perfume. Cold air. Smoke from cigarettes, pipes, cigars or fireplaces. Pollen, mold or dust mites. Animal dander. Air pollution. Respiratory tract infections or reactions, stemming from sources such as the common cold or flu. Health Tip: Keep Mold Out of Your Home Mold exposure can lead to respiratory, eye and skin irritation, or much more serious reactions. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers these suggestions to minimize mold growth in your home: Make sure indoor humidity levels are kept between 40 percent and 60 percent. During very humid weather, run the air conditioner, a dehumidifier or both. Ensure that your home is well-ventilated, including exhaust fans where needed. Before painting a room, add a mold-inhibiting agent to the paint. Scrub bathrooms regularly with cleaning products designed to kill mold. Avoid carpet in moist areas, such as in bathrooms and the basement. Promptly get rid of any carpets or upholstered items that have been soaked.