Long-term management checklist for house dust mite allergic asthma

Be clear about the goals

The usual goals of asthma management are: few daytime symptoms, not waking at night because of coughing or wheezing, daily activities and exercise not limited, and as few acute attacks as possible. This is not the same as "no attacks at all", but a stable state can be reached through standard treatment and environmental control.

Environment checklist (for house dust mite)

• Use washable mite-proof covers on mattresses and pillows, and wash bedding that touches the skin at over 55°C every week
• Keep bedroom humidity at around 50%, and avoid keeping doors and windows closed for long periods
• Reduce carpets, heavy curtains and piles of fabric items
• Clean using wet methods, and open windows for ventilation while cleaning
• Avoid tobacco smoke at all times, including second-hand smoke and the smoke components left on clothes and furniture

Treatment and teamwork checklist

Use medicines according to the plan set by your doctor, and master the correct use of your inhaler device. Go for regular follow-up visits to assess your level of control. Work with your doctor to create a written plan for "what to do during an attack", and make sure family, housemates or colleagues know about it. If symptoms clearly get worse, or if speaking becomes difficult, lips turn blue, or there is severe difficulty breathing, see a doctor immediately or call 120 (the emergency number in China). Reducing or stopping medicines on your own may bring risks.

This article is for public education and for general information only. It is not medical advice. Please follow your doctor's instructions.