Various triggers — materials in the air, such as smoke and pollution, as well as some respiratory infections — can cause asthma attacks.

Common asthma triggers and what you can do to address them:

• Secondhand tobacco smoke. Create a smoke-free environment in your home and car, and make sure no one smokes at your child’s day care. If you need to quit, Norton Healthcare Prevention & Wellness offers the American Lung Association’s free Freedom From Smoking program.
• Dust mites. Use allergen-proof mattress and pillowcase covers to create a barrier. Wash bedding weekly once a week and dry it completely. Vacuum carpets and other flooring regularly with a vacuum that has a HEPA filter.
• Pet dander. Keep the pet out of the child’s room at all times and wash the furry animal weekly.
• Cleaning products and disinfectants. Avoid products with fragrances. Use soap and water, or cleaners that have ingredients that are safe for human health and the environment.
• Cockroaches and other pests. Keep areas where food is consumed free of crumbs and ensure that food is stored in airtight containers. Keep counters, sinks, tables and floors clean and free of clutter. Avoid sprays and foggers against pests, as these can cause asthma attacks.
• Airborne irritants. When possible, avoid air pollution, wood fires, charcoal grills, pollen, mold and cigarette smoke.

Why Choose Norton Children’s for Your Child’s Pulmonology Care

• Our physicians are members of the American College of Chest Physicians, American Board of Pediatrics, American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Thoracic Society.
• Our cystic fibrosis (CF) program is accredited as a Cystic Fibrosis Care Center by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, offering “the best care, treatments and support for those with cystic fibrosis.” It is the only accredited pediatric CF program in Louisville or Southern Indiana.
• Your child may benefit from access to new and innovative treatments being studied through our extensive clinical research program, including our membership in the Cystic Fibrosis Therapeutics Development Network.
• The Childhood Asthma Care and Education Center at Norton Children’s Hospital offers comprehensive, state-of-the-art therapeutic strategies for all stages of asthma.
• We offer a multidisciplinary Severe Asthma Clinic dedicated to caring for children with the most difficult-to-treat cases of asthma.
• Our certified asthma educator and other providers offer individualized education on asthma, proper monitoring, effective use of medications and correct use of inhalers.
• The Norton Children’s Hospital laboratory has one of the region’s only pulmonary function testing and diagnostics systems.