Each May, we observe Asthma Awareness Month, a time to spotlight a chronic condition that affects over 25 million Americans. While asthma can’t be cured, it can be managed, and understanding the role of indoor air quality (IAQ) is a key part of that. Asthma causes inflammation in the airways, making it difficult to breathe and triggering symptoms like wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. For many people, flare-ups are triggered by environmental factors—and some of the most powerful ones may be lurking inside the home. 

 

Why Indoor Air Quality Matters 

We often assume that staying indoors protects us from allergens and pollutants, but that’s not always the case. In fact, indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air. Common asthma triggers are frequently found in everyday household spaces. 

Here are some of the biggest culprits: 

  • Dust mites, which thrive in bedding, carpets, and upholstered furniture 
  • Mold and mildew, especially in damp or poorly ventilated areas 
  • Pet dander, which lingers in the air and on surfaces 
  • Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), released by cleaners, paints, air fresheners, and even some scented candles 
  • Smoke, whether from tobacco, fireplaces, or cooking 

These pollutants can accumulate over time, silently impacting air quality and increasing the likelihood of asthma symptoms, especially in sensitive individuals. 

 

How to Create an Asthma-Friendly Home 

Asthma Awareness Month is the perfect time to take action. Improving your indoor air doesn’t have to be complicated. Even small changes can make a noticeable difference. Consider starting with these practical steps: 

  • Test your indoor air. Home testing kits can reveal the presence of VOCs, allergens, mold spores, and other asthma triggers that may not be visible or detectable by smell. 
  • Improve ventilation. Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms, and open windows when outdoor conditions are favorable. 
  • Control humidity. Aim to keep indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50% to prevent mold growth and reduce dust mites. 
  • Use HEPA filters. Install them in your HVAC system and vacuum to trap airborne allergens more effectively. 
  • Clean with care. Choose non-toxic, fragrance-free cleaning products to reduce chemical exposure indoors. 

 

Don’t Forget the Asthma Action Plan 

Managing asthma also involves knowing how to respond when symptoms appear. If you or someone in your home has asthma, work with a healthcare provider to develop a personalized Asthma Action Plan. This outlines daily management strategies, medications, and emergency steps in the event of an attack. Understanding indoor triggers and eliminating them where possible is a key part of that plan. 

 

Join the Movement for Cleaner Air 

Asthma Awareness Month is a reminder that we all have a role to play in creating healthier environments. Whether you’re living with asthma or supporting someone who is, taking control of your indoor air can lead to fewer symptoms, fewer emergency room visits, and a better quality of life. This May, let’s commit to cleaner indoor air. Because when we breathe better, we live better. 

 

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