Curtains should be replaced with shades or blinds and bedding washed using the highest temperature setting. Damp housing increases the risk for asthma. Electric stoves should replace gas ovens, which release nitrogen dioxide. Cockroaches should be eliminated by professional exterminators. Patients should avoid strenuous activity when ozone levels are highest, which usually occur in early afternoon, particularly on hot hazy summer days.
Levels are lowest in early afternoon and at dusk.
Patients who are allergic to mold should avoid barns, hay, raking leaves, and mowing grass. Exposure to automobile fumes may worsen asthma. Fungi in car air conditioners can also be a problem. Avoiding Certain Drugs Aspirin and products containing aspirin can cause life-threatening asthma attacks in susceptible individuals. A number of drugs interact with asthma medications, so all drugs being taken should be discussed with the physician.