May is Asthma Awareness Month

There are many irritants and triggers to asthma.  And since it is Asthma Awareness Month, I thought I'd point out another reason to switch to non-toxic household cleaners.  Below are a list of irritants from the U.S.  EPA.

• Secondhand Smoke
• Dust Mites
• Mold
• Cockroaches and Pests
• Pets
• Nitrogen Dioxide (gas cooking stoves, space heaters)
• Outdoor Air Pollution
• Wood Smoke
• Chemicals such as Household Cleaners

About Chemical Irritants and Asthma from the U.S.  EPA

Chemical irritants are found in some products in your house and may trigger asthma. Your asthma or your child's asthma may be worse around products such as cleaners, paints, adhesives, pesticides, cosmetics or air fresheners. Chemical irritants are also present in schools and can be found in commonly used cleaning supplies and educational kits.

Chemical irritants may exacerbate asthma. At sufficient concentrations in the air, many products can trigger a reaction.

Actions You Can Take

If you find that your asthma or your child's asthma gets worse when you use a certain product, consider trying different products.

If you must use a product, then you should:

• Make sure your child is not around.
• Open windows or doors, or use an exhaust fan.
• Always follow the instructions on the product label.
• Use a nontoxic product from the store or make your own.  See the recipes page.