If you have to smoke, take it outside. Better yet, set a fine example and quit for good. Many children with asthma have allergies that can set off attacks. The dust mites that live in pillows and mattresses are common culprits. You may be able to improve your child s breathing dramatically by washing bed linens and blankets once a week, encasing pillows and mattresses in zippered airtight covers, and removing carpet from the bedroom.
Cats can also aggravate asthma.
If your child is allergic to cat dander, ask yourself if you really need a cat in your life. Keep the kitty litter box in a room that your child doesn't frequent, and don't forget to have your child wash his hands after he's played with his beloved feline. You can control pollen allergies by keeping your windows closed during pollen season and installing a special allergy filter in your air conditioner. If your child is allergic to molds, clean damp areas frequently and consider buying a dehumidifier to keep the air dry. If it's impossible to avoid dander, pollen, or other things that cause allergic reactions, talk to your allergist about immunotherapy.