Once the home and work place are relatively free of dust, dander, and smoke, living with asthma is almost exactly like living without asthma. Some sufferers may experience more symptoms on high-pollen days. It s best to stay indoors if possible, with the air conditioner circulating, if you have asthma and pollen irritates your condition. It is an unfortunate fact that pets make asthma symptoms worse. It s even more sad that cat and dog dander is one of the biggest causes for reactionary symptoms in asthmatics. But here is the news, no matter how unhappy to read, to separate urban legend from fact. A common misconception is that only fur or feathers is what cause a reaction in those susceptible to asthma. Look for online message boards, forums, and chat groups where people who have asthma can share thoughts, ideas, and advice. The Internet is a great way to connect with others. There are also lots of resources online, and at public libraries, where it s possible to find more information about living with asthma. Symptoms in a young child Symptoms of a cold causing wheezing where there is no other explanation. A dry nighttime cough, shortness of breath after exertion such as crawling, walking or playing. Minimizing the triggers By removing the triggers as much as possible, it will help make attacks less likely things that can help trigger an attack are dust mites, pollen, fur, and smoke. Eliminate residual smoke odors in the home by washing and airing out fabrics, wiping down furniture and even the walls, and removing dust from vents and fans. If someone in the home has asthma, make the environment as clean and breathing-friendly as possible. Eliminating smoke is one very important step in making living with asthma no big deal at all. Pets can trigger asthma and it is better if you do not have any pets if you are a sufferer, but if you do have pets take as many precautions as you can, keep the pet outside if possible and never let pets in the bedroom. Any mould in the home can be a potential trigger and if inhaled can cause an attack.