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Asthma/asthma and gas boilers

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Expert: - 4/14/2010


Question
Hi Mark i have a son of nine who suffers from asthma he is on a ventolin and flixotide steroid inhaler we live in a small council flat which has a gas central heating boiler the his bedroom would this effect his asthma ? I would really appreciate your advice on this matter .
Kind Regards,
Sharon,
Ireland.

Answer
Hi Sharon,

How dry is the air in his room? Is there a humidifier present?

Dry air increases the "twitchiness" of the airways. Cold, dry air even more so...which is why the winter is a tough time for most asthmatics. The dry air also results in more dust movement, further aggravating the lungs. If it is an older flat, the potential for mold is also higher, the the dry air makes it easier for it to "float" around in your living space.

To reduce dust potential, a room HEPA filter for his bedroom would be beneficial, as well as dusting with a damp cloth. If you don't have a humidifier, get a good one with filtration, and be sure to clean it on a regular basis, so it does not become a mold source.

Hope this helps you.

If you have further questions, please get back to me.

Sincerely,

Marc

Asthma

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Marc Rubin, RPh Asthma Educator

Expertise

I have worked directly with patients as well as caregivers for over 30 years. Have made presentations throughout Illinois educating school nurses as well as the teaching and coaching staff of public schools about asthma, and how they should respond to these students needs. Presented a public education program on asthma through the US Department of Public Health. Specialize in helping guide asthmatic patients to take control of their disease in order to live a near-normal, fully active life.

Experience

Practicing pharmacist for 34 years, specializing in asthma for past 7 years. Statewide education to nurses, teachers and athletic coaches regarding asthma. In addition, and closer to home. my wife and daughter both have asthma, and my son has exercise induced bronchospasm. I'm also on the advisory board of a medical education company, Emmi Solutions, and directly involved in the creation of public education programs for asthma, COPD and diabetes.

Organizations
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) / Sports Medicine Committee, American Thoracic Society (ATS). Chicago Asthma Consortium / Professional Development Committee, Respiratory Health Association of Metropolitan Chicago: Development Committee for AE-C prep class, and presenter.

Publications
AAAAI PowerPoint on the new guidelines for EIB (Exercise Induced Bronchospasm)

Education/Credentials
BScPharm, RPh, AE-C (NAECB Certified asthma educator), NIPCO Certified Respiratory Care Pharmacist

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