This week is known as Asthma Peak Week – the week out of the year when asthma episodes, attacks and hospitalizations tend to be the highest. In the third week of September, both adults and children with asthma are exposed to more asthma and allergy triggers such as ragweed pollen, respiratory infections, and dust and mold in school buildings.

It's best to start preparing for the Asthma Peak weeks, or even months in advance. But now that it's here, there are still ways you can protect yourself. An article by Forbes, "It’s Asthma Peak Week – Here’s How to Get Ready," offers some tips to stay healthy, including:

• Wash your hands often and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
• Avoid people who are sick
• Remove your shoes before going indoors to avoid tracking in pollen and mold
• Use a CERTIFIED asthma & allergy friendly® air cleaner or filter
  
  

Also get familiar with the early warning signs of an asthma episode or attack. At the first sign of symptoms, follow your Asthma Action Plan. And if you start having emergency symptoms, get help right away!

You can start planning for next year now. Make a note or set a calendar reminder for next summer to talk to your doctor about ways you can prepare for the next Asthma Peak Week.