Warmer weather is here, along with greener landscapes, blooming flowers and more rainfall. And that can mean more problems than usual for people with asthma.

It’s a good idea to make sure to get prescriptions refilled for asthma medications, including controller medicines, which help prevent symptoms, and rescue medicines, to treat symptoms when they occur. If you’re not sure which is which, ask your doctor now!

You may also want to talk to your doctor about treating allergies. Spring is the worst season for most people with allergies.

If you or your child have asthma, it’s important to know what the likely triggers are. An asthma trigger is anything that can cause wheezing, coughing or other symptoms. Different people can have different triggers. Some common ones include:

* Tobacco smoke

* Pollen (from trees, grasses and flowers)

* Mold

* Pets

* Cockroaches and rodents

* Other types of smoke, such as from fireplaces

* Perfumes and aerosol sprays

Try to avoid being around your triggers. Talk to your doctor about how to do that. You may need to put special coverings on mattresses and pillows, for instance. Don’t dry sheets or clothing outside, so they don’t get covered with pollen. Don’t smoke, and avoid being around smoke.

You can’t cure asthma, but you can take steps to control it. The right medication and care can help keep you out of the emergency room or hospital — and help you or our child stay healthy, active and feeling well. ...