Ben Francisco, PhD, a pediatric nurse practitioner at Children's Hospital and assistant research professor at MU's School of Medicine, offers these pointers for reducing your child's exposure to some common asthma triggers.

Second-Hand Smoke

• Do not smoke in your home or car or allow others to do so.

Dust Mites

• Wash stuffed toys and dry them completely to help control dust mites.
• Wash your child's bedding in hot water and dry completely once a week.
• Use dustproof covers on pillows and mattresses.
• Vacuum carpets and furniture every week.

 Pets

• If possible, keep pets outside. If you have indoor pets, do not allow them in your child's bedroom.
• Keep pets off your furniture.
• Vacuum carpets and furniture when your child is not around.

 Pests (Such as Cockroaches)

• Cover the trash to keep pests away.
• Clean dishes, crumbs and spills immediately.
• Store all of your food in airtight containers.
• Seal cracks or openings around or inside cabinets.
• Use roach baits or traps instead of sprays.

 Mold

• Fix leaks as soon as possible to keep mold from growing.
• If you see mold on hard surfaces, remove it with soap and water and then let the area dry completely.
• Use exhaust fans or open a window in the bathroom and kitchen when showering, cooking or washing dishes.