ProTeam is a National Proud Partner of the American Lung Association. We believe in Cleaning for Health and the positive health impacts provided by improving indoor air quality. Healthy indoor air is especially important for sensitive populations like children, the elderly, and those with allergies and asthma. May 2nd is World Asthma Day, and it is an important time to raise awareness of the prevalence of asthma and the need to manage asthma triggers in public and private spaces.

Asthma is a lung disease that makes breathing difficult and causes repeated episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and nighttime or early morning coughing. According to the ALA, nearly 26 million Americans have asthma, including more than 7 million children. While there is no cure for asthma, it can be managed and treated so that asthma sufferers can live a normal, healthy life.

Asthma triggers are things, activities, or conditions that make asthma worse. Asthma triggers range from house dust and pollen to heavy exercise and intense emotional states. Identifying and avoiding asthma triggers can help those with asthma manage it more effectively. ProTeam vacuums are equipped with an advanced ProLevel Filtration system that captures many asthma triggers and other harmful particles, leaving behind healthier air. While a vacuum can’t help with all asthma triggers, here are 4 common asthma triggers a ProTeam Vacuum can help reduce.

A ProTeam vacuum may be used as part of a greater plan to manage asthma triggers that should be formulated with the help of a doctor.

1. Bacteria

Harmful bacteria can cause respiratory infections, which are the most common causes of asthma symptoms and flare-ups. Proper cleaning in all areas helps reduce exposure to disease-causing bacteria, and vacuuming with a ProTeam vacuum helps remove airborne and surface bacteria. Frequent hand washing, avoiding people who are sick, and an annual flu shot also help reduce exposure to cold and flu.

2. Pests

Pests such as dust mites, roaches, and rodent droppings can impact asthma. ProTeam backpack vacuums work hard across the country as part of professional Integrated Pest Management programs. At home, you can vacuum and dust with a ProTeam vacuum weekly to help reduce pests, paying special attention to cracks and crevices. Washing bedding regularly and using allergen-proof pillows and mattress covers also helps reduce exposure to dust mites. Remove food and water sources such as garbage to deter roaches and rodents.

3. Pollen

Changes in the season can bring on an asthma episode due to increased pollen. Regular vacuuming can help remove pollen from the air and prevent it from becoming concentrated in the indoor environment. Asthma sufferers can also limit time outdoors during high pollen times of the year.

4. Pet Dander

Dander and saliva from animals with fur or feathers can be an allergen and cause asthma symptoms. Reduce exposure to pet allergens by vacuuming floors, upholstery, and horizontal surfaces weekly or more as needed. You can also wash pets weekly and keep them out of the bedroom of those suffering from asthma.

To find out more about living with asthma and reducing asthma triggers, visit the CDC or American Lung Association.