Asthma FAQ

My son has recently diagnosed with asthma. Do I need to quit smoking?: That depends. Consider, if you will, how often you regularly smoke and where. Do you smoke near your son inside the house? Inside a car? If so then you are certainly increasing the frequency of his asthma attacks and perhaps even worsening the condition.

How bad is smoking on asthma?: Because of the nature of cigarette smoking, the particles from second hand smoke can cause wheezing and other respiratory infections. If you choose to continue to smoke, I would suggest smoking outside at home and try not to smoke while driving. However, quitting smoking would be the best option as it would not only lower the frequency of his asthma attacks but would also be beneficial to your health and quality of life.

Help! My asthma is the worst at home but I’m a clean freak – no dust! What could it be?: For someone to suffer from environmental substances at home, it doesn’t necessarily have to be dust though that is the most common source.

Indoor air pollution can come from anywhere that has organic compounds, including perfumes and products that have been perfumed such as dishwashing detergent, soap, laundry detergent, paper tissue, aftershave lotion, candles, air fresheners, hairspray, gel, facial cream, cosmetics, deodorant, sun block, et cetera.

Pet epithelial cells – such as from cats – may also cause asthma to flare up, as well as the presence of cockroaches. Mold spores can also cause flare-ups of asthma as it can trigger the asthmatic condition in your bronchial tubes to inflame. Psychological stress at home can also cause an asthmatic attack so be aware of how much stress you are taking on at home.