Homes don't breathe like they used to, creating better breading grounds for mold and mildew.
When I was growing up, I didn't know anybody who had asthma, but I bet today almost everyone knows somebody who suffers with it. Why the increase in asthma? That is a question that many doctors and scientists have tried to figure out, and many theories have been offered.
Most researchers put forth ideas that today we have such a higher rate of exposure to potential allergens and pollutants. Thirty years ago, Windex was primarily the only cleaning agent available, but today there are a multitude of cleaning supplies for every surface. In addition, furniture and carpets are produced with formaldehyde as a preservative, which we inhale every day. Also, the quality of homes today is far superior in creating a much more airtight environment compared to the older draftier homes that allowed for better air circulation.
Food allergens can also play a role due to the increase in the use of preservatives in order to make food store longer. Other researchers have proposed that the increase in vaccinations, cesarean births and antibiotic intake may be playing a role too.
So what can we do?
Here a few tips in order to decrease asthma attacks:
Using air filters in the home, covering pillows and mattresses with dust covers and using hypoallergenic bed clothing may reduce exposure to dust mites.
Diet is important. Choose a more vegetarian diet since meats can cause more inflammation and avoid foods containing MSG and lots of preservatives.
Reduce stress, and if your asthma is not exercise-induced, regular exercise will help to reduce the amount of attacks.
Originally posted on the Northborough Patch
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