Can Asthma Be Prevented?

Since science does not know what makes some people susceptible to asthma, there's no known way to prevent it. However, once someone has been diagnosed with asthma, the more severe symptoms can be prevented.

• Allergy treatments. These can range from medications to the avoidance or removal of allergens. For instance, a doctor may recommend that your house be treated for mold, and a dehumidifier installed to prevent its return. Or the doctor may prescribe an allergy medicine if you're allergic to pollens. A series of allergy tests can help determine which allergens you should be aware of.

• Preventive medication. These are usually taken once or twice a day, and they are usually inhaled. They will suppress the body's response to triggers.

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This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.