Alleviating the problem will require industries to provide more comprehensive reporting of lead released into the environment. Unfortunately, allowing children to stay indoors may prove no less safe than sending them outdoors, as indoor pollutants also trigger asthma. The biggest problem, according to Tracey Mitchell, RRT, scientist for the EPA's indoor environment division, is the smoking adult. Mitchell claims if a household contains smoking adults, children living there have a much greater risk for developing asthma. But a 1999 National Academy of Science study showed second-hand smoke directly leads to children developing asthma.
Smoking also contributes to an increase in otitis media, or earaches.
When second-hand smoke is present, cotinine levels can rise up to 10 times greater than normal in children. Active smokers have cotinine levels 100 times higher than normal. To control molds and their spores, lower the humidity in the house. For example, use a fan to ventilate the bathroom if there isn't a window. Dust mites are also another allergen creating asthmatic symptoms in children, but they can be reduced in the house.