Whether it's cats or dogs, we all know and love those little furry friends. Turns out, they do more than just bring joy and happiness into our lives. they actually help us humans breathe easier, keeping our asthma in check and preventing young children from developing asthma at an early age.
In this blog post, we’ll be discussing how our four-legged fur babies have our back, keep our lungs functioning better and uncover how they have asthma-fighting superpowers.
The asthma misconception
To set the record straight, there’s a misconception that pets and those living with asthma don’t mix, but that is, in fact, a myth. Although pet dander and fur may sometimes act as asthma symptom triggers, the reality is that living with pets can bring about surprising benefits when it comes to asthma.
Research has shown that living with pets can reduce the risk of asthma in children. But how does living with pets produce such a protective effect? In the studies cited, researchers couldn’t exactly place a finger on why this happens for sure, but the most likely answer is something referred to as the ‘Hygiene Hypothesis’.
This hypothesis suggests that early childhood exposure to germs and certain infections helps the immune system develop faster. In theory, it teaches the body to differentiate harmful substances from harmful substances that trigger asthma, instructing the body not to overreact to the former.
These studies show that having a furry friend can actually be a breath of fresh air for your children. They may just be your secret weapon against asthma attacks.
What triggers asthma attacks
Asthma is no joke! About 3 million Australians live with asthma, many being school children. Managing asthma can be a tedious task for parents, but if the right steps are taken, they can be managed effectively.
READ MORE: Avoid the back-to-school asthma spike
Allergy triggers usually vary from person to person, so it’s important to know your own trigger and avoid them the best you can. Among the more common asthma triggers include mould spores, dust mites, physical activity, tobacco smoke and even stress.
Once your triggers have been identified, it’s best to take steps to avoid them. Work with your doctor to create an effective asthma plan for yourself or your loved ones. For schoolchildren, it’s always a good idea to share the asthma action plan with schooling staff, including teachers and principals.
Managing asthma triggers
Once your asthma triggers have been identified, pay attention to your surroundings to avoid being close to them and triggering another asthma attack. Below are some ways for you to be better able to manage asthma triggers and keep your airways open and free so you can breathe easy!
Keeping it clean
Cleanliness supports an asthma-free lifestyle. By keeping your living quarters clean with minimal dust, you’ll be minimising the presence of asthma particles. Do this by regularly sweeping, vacuuming and wiping down on surfaces.
Air purifiers for asthma
Ionmax air purifiers are able to remove up to 99.97% of allergens floating in the air, including dust, pollen and smoke particles. It processes the ambient air, removes unwanted particles and sends back purified air to your living space.
Staying active
Partaking in exercise is suitable for individuals with asthma as it builds lung capacity, reduces inflammation and enhances respiratory fitness. However, don’t take on intense exercises you know your body can’t handle. If you start feeling asthma symptoms, take a break and use your inhaler or other medications as prescribed.
Taking medicine
Prescribed medication should be taken seriously. It’s important to take them as directed by your doctor, whether they are inhalers or oral medications. They are essential to control inflammation and keep your airways open and clear.
Dehumidifiers for mould
Ionmax dehumidifiers are the perfect tool for mould control. By regulating humidity levels and removing excess moisture from the air, Ionmax dehumidifiers are able to stop the spread of mould, as these pesky bacteria thrive in humid conditions. If one of your asthma triggers is mould, investing in a dehumidifier could be a viable option that should be explored.
Pets for the win!
Don’t let asthma hold you back from enjoying the love that your pets bring. Living with them can be a game-changer for your health and that of those you love. To make the most of your asthma-fighting power from your furry pals, always ensure that your living space is clean and your pets are regularly groomed.
Visit our resources page to earn more about indoor air quality and how you can improve indoor air quality in your home with Ionmax.
Browse through our wide selection of air purifiers and dehumidifiers to get the right one to suit your space!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general reference only. Please seek advice from professionals according to your needs.
Ionmax Australia
Founded in 2003, Ionmax Australia has received numerous awards and accolades for its innovative products and commitment to customer satisfaction. Ionmax dehumidifiers and air purifiers have been recognised for their effectiveness in reducing indoor air pollutants and improving air quality. The company is committed to researching and developing new and improved products that meet the needs and expectations of its customers, making it a trusted name in households across Australia and beyond.
