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5 allergy and COPD triggers hiding in your home
Living with COPD can be a challenge, but with a few simple changes, you can make your home a safe and comfortable place. If you need extra help, we’re here for you. Simply self enroll for medication support, you can also call us at (410) 348-1905 or send us an email. Here are five things to watch out for and how to deal with them:
Tobacco Smoke
- Why It’s Harmful: Smoke from cigarettes and cigars can make your breathing worse. Even the smoke that sticks to furniture can be bad for you!
- Tip: Keep your home smoke-free. Ask everyone to smoke outside. Thinking about quitting? There are lots of resources to help you.
- Learn More: Your health plan has some great resources and help! Learn more below about your health plan. American Lung Association - COPD | Quit Smoking with American Lung Association.
Strong Smells and Chemicals
- Why It’s Harmful: Strong smells from cleaning products, perfumes, and air fresheners can irritate your lungs and make it harder to breathe.
- Tip: Use cleaning products without strong smells and open windows to air out your home. Skip the heavy perfumes and air fresheners. Choose products that don’t have a smell, or that smell natural to avoid breathing problems. Yuka is a free app that offers natural alternatives to your favorite products!
- Learn More: EPA - Indoor Air Quality | CDC - COPD Triggers
Dust and Mold
- Why It’s Harmful: Dust and mold can get into your lungs and cause trouble breathing.
- Tip: When you dust, use a wet cloth, microfiber, or a product that traps the dust instead of sending it into the air. Fix any water leaks to stop mold from growing. You can also create a cheap and effective air purifier at home.
- Learn More: CDC - COPD | American Lung Association - Indoor Air Pollution
Pet Dander
- Why It’s Harmful: Pet hair and dander can make your COPD worse by irritating your lungs.
- Tip: Keep pets out of your bedroom and vacuum often to pick up pet hair. If taking care of pets is hard, ask a neighbor for help or hire a pet service.
- Learn More: NHLBI - COPD | MedlinePlus - Pet Allergies
Radon Gas
- Why It’s Harmful: Radon is a gas that can come from the ground and get into your home. It can be dangerous for your lungs.
- Tip: Test your home for radon using a kit from the hardware store, or hire a professional to do it. Fix any problems to keep your home safe.
- Learn More: NHLBI - COPD | EPA - Radon
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