If you or someone in your household has asthma, it’s essential to maintain your HVAC system. Avoiding triggers is a critical component of asthma treatment, and without a properly functioning heater and AC, they can be everywhere in the home. Here are some of the most significant ways your HVAC system can prevent asthma attacks. 

Controlling Humidity 

If you have asthma, keep your home’s humidity level between 35% and 50%. If it gets any higher, it may be hard to breathe. When the air has a high moisture content, it can trigger symptoms of asthma. Humidity also contributes to the growth of mold and mildew, which will only worsen asthma, especially in those who also have allergies, as well.   

Generally speaking, HVAC systems reduce moisture levels as they cycle air throughout the home. However, if you live in an especially humid area, it may be necessary to install a whole-home dehumidifier, too. This will allow you to control the moisture content of the air in your home with more accuracy. 

Improving Air Quality

A properly functioning HVAC system will filter all the air that passes through it. Standard filters can trap pet dander, cockroach droppings, and other irritants that can trigger asthma. To ensure the system will prevent even the tiniest particles from getting by, consider upgrading to an HVAC system that’s compatible with HEPA filters. These filters can improve air quality immensely by trapping everything from dust mites and pollen to tobacco smoke and some microorganisms. This will serve to enhance the efficacy of ongoing asthma treatment and create indoor air conditions that are conducive to a healthier respiratory system. 

Because you’ll inevitably be exposed to triggers outside the home, maintaining your HVAC system is just one element of asthma treatment. For help keeping symptoms at bay in any scenario, turn to Allergy and Asthma Specialty Center/Mashood Ahmad, M.D. Practicing out of West Chester, OH, Dr. Masood Ahmad has satellite offices in Middletown and Georgetown.  For more than 25 years, Dr. Ahmad has been helping patients of all ages lead fulfilling lives despite having allergies or asthma. To learn more about his clinical training, visit the practice online. To make an appointment to discuss asthma treatment, call (513) 777-7097 today.