Patients should be aware of pollution levels and air pollution “alerts” issued by local public health authorities. Air conditioning can be effective in reducing irritating airborne gases. An air filter reduces levels of particulate pollutants.

Outdoor Allergens and Irritants

Avoidance

Avoidance is the best way to reduce your number of asthmatic attacks triggered by exposure to pollens, molds, and other outdoor allergens. Sensitive individuals are best protected in an air conditioned environment that contains an air filter. Pollen and mold spore counts are commonly found in newspapers and TV weather reports.

Pollens and Molds

Pollens are seasonal and patients should be able to prepare ahead for particularly difficult months. Patients with known tree pollen allergy who are symptomatic in the spring, for example, may reduce the frequency of asthma attacks by beginning an anti-inflammatory agent such as inhaled corticosteroid or cromolyn or nedocromil two to three weeks before the start of their “season.” Those who are sensitive to grasses and ragweed will want to maintain their medication through to the first frost.

Mold spores are more plentiful in warmer months. Thousands of different species of mold exist. They may be found in high numbers on both dry and rainy days. Alternaria is a mold often found in dry, warm climates and in farming areas. Fusarium mold is often found in plants and is abundant during damp, humid weather. Other molds are found in decaying wood and soil. Be sure you anticipate exposure during outdoor activities (mowing the lawn, raking leaves). A simple filter mask may help you reduce your exposure. Patients may also reduce exposure by staying indoors, using air conditioning and air filtration.

Air pollution

Air pollution has been demonstrated to have significant adverse effects on patients with lung disease and especially those with bronchial asthma.The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set standards for most common pollutants, including sulfur dioxide (S02), nitrogen dioxide (N°2) , carbon monoxide, ozone, particulates, and lead. Sulfur dioxide and particulates are produced by combustion of sulfur containing fuels such as coal and petroleum. Sulfur dioxide is found in high concentrations near steel mills, power plants, and other factories that burn coal or oil. Particulates are the soot and ashes produced by incinerators, smokestacks, and diesel trucks.

Nitrogen dioxide is a product of industry found in high concentrations when fuel is burned and it may be released by power plants and automobiles. This type of industrial pollution affects primarily the central and eastern United States but may also be found in any area with many vehicles. According to the EPA, heavy duty diesel engines produce 25 percent of all vehiclem generated nitrogen oxides, a main component of acid rain and a major source of urban smog. Carbon monoxide is also emitted by automobiles and factories.