smoking cigarettes and keep your home smoke-free.
Be conscious of thirdhand smoke, too. This refers to residual smoke left behind after a person smokes. So even if someone doesn’t smoke around you, the scent of smoke on their clothes can worsen your symptoms.
Replace Your Carpet With Hard Floors
Carpet can ensnare many pollutants like pet dander, dust, and other allergens. Depending on the harshness of your symptoms, extracting your carpet and replacing it with hardwood floors or tile may help enhance your symptoms.
If you cannot remove your carpet, get a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter and vacuum your floors often. Every six to 12 months, get your carpets, fabric furniture, and curtains steam cleaned.
Hook Up an Air Purifier
An air purifier can remove allergens and other pollutants and irritants. For top-notch filtration, choose an air purifier with a HEPA filter.
Don’t Use Harsh Chemicals Indoors
Some chemicals used to dust, mop, or disinfect your home could trouble your symptoms and trigger breathlessness.
Make a concerted measure to avoid harsh chemicals altogether. This includes chemicals used to clean your home and personal hygiene products. Also, be cautious with air fresheners, plug-ins, and scented candles.
Look for natural or non-toxic items that are free of fragrances. As far as cleaning goes, consider making natural household cleaners. You can create plenty of options using vinegar, lemon juice, baking soda, and water.
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Eliminate Indoor Clutter
Eliminating mess decreases dust accumulation so that you can breathe easier.
The less clutter in your home, the better. Clutter is a breeding ground for dust. In addition to vacuuming and mopping your floors, declutter shelves, desks, tables, corners, and bookcases.
Have Your AC and Air Ducts Inspected
You might neglect this aspect of home maintenance, but it’s essential if you have COPD. Mold and mildew in your home can go undetected and unknowingly worsen your condition. Schedule an air conditioning inspection for mold and have your ductwork inspected for mildew each year. Eliminating mold and mildew around your home can lead to cleaner air and a more breathable environment.
Living with COPD has its challenges, but making a few fundamental adjustments can create a home that’s better suited to this disease. Having a comfortable and breathable space may reduce your number of flares, allowing you to enjoy life to the fullest.