Asthma Home Remedies

Maintain a healthy body weight. Studies show that obesity increases the risk of developing asthma.

Get regular exercise. This will keep the lungs working better and more efficiency. This strengthens the lungs and heart. Start with brisk walking for about 30 minutes three times daily.

Increase the intensity gradually. (Note: Cold or rapid breathing can trigger asthma attack in some people.)

Manage stress. For some people, exposure to stress can trigger an asthma attack. Consider meditation, yoga, Tai Chi and breathing exercises.

Did you know that you can actually measure your lung function and predict when you might get an asthma attack? It is true!

Buy a peak flow meter from your local pharmacy and have the pharmacist explain to you how to use it and understand the readings.

Maintain a healthy diet and follow an asthma foods diet.

Do not smoke. (Do we need to mention this?)

Keep the home clean, especially the bedroom where you sleep.

Do not dust! Use a wet cloth to wipe off the dust. Dusting simply moves the dust from the surface to the air which you will breathe!

Keep pets away from the bedroom. Ensure pet dander is controlled by getting regular grooming. 

Avoid breathing in second-hand smoke.

Use an allergy air filter. Buy a true HEPA grade air filter and place it in your bedroom. Have it running at full speed when you are not in the room. It will remove airborne dust, dander and allergens.

Maintain your home furnace regularly by changing the air filter. Did you know that most people don't do this simple thing?

Also, don't buy cheap fiberglass air filter. They do not filter at all. Get one that is rated as MERV 7 or better. MERV 10 and up air filters cost over $15 each but may be worth the money for those with severe asthma.

Have a professional properly clean your furnace and air vents annually.

Make sure the vacuum cleaner you are using has a HEPA filter. Better yet, get a central vacuum system. This way, no air from the vacuuming process is exhausted back into the house.

Keep the humidity in the bedroom low to avoid growth of molds.

Wash beddings once or twice a week in hot water to kill off dust mites. Cover mattress, box spring and pillows with allergy-proof coverings.

Sure, it will make noises and funny sounds when you move around in bed, but hey, it's a small price to pay to avoid asthma.