Don't Let Triggers of Summer Asthma Keep Your Youngster Down

Summer is prime time for asthma triggers such as grass pollen and smog. To manage your child's summer allergies and asthma:

• Reduce your child’s exposure to pollen and outdoor molds. Whenever you can, keep the windows closed in your home and car, and run the air conditioner. Have someone else mow the grass, if possible. Avoid hanging linen and laundry outside when pollen counts are high.
• Check the Air Quality Index on the news or at airnow.gov. Limit outdoor exercise when the air pollution level is high.
• Stick to your child’s asthma action plan. If your child’s healthcare provider has prescribed a long-term control medicine, make sure your child takes it every day.