Page 22 - NTM INSIGHT Pamphlet 2024

• Be sure to change any water filters very regularly.
• Raise the temperature of water heater to 55° C (131° F).
• Use humidifiers with caution. Avoid ultrasonic humidifiers if possible and clean your humidifier’s reservoir frequently. Soak it in undiluted bleach for 30 minutes and rinse it thoroughly. Use sterilized water in the humidifier.
• Wear a dust mask to prevent inhalation of dirt particles while working with potting soil or in the garden and wet the soil to reduce the number of particles released into the air.
• Take steps to reduce GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), including elevating the head of the bed.
• Do NOT store cleaning supplies in the AC return air closet.
For more detailed information on these and other measures to reduce exposure, log on to ntminfo.org.
ALLERGIES
Substances that irritate your lungs may create additional inflammation and result in increased sputum production, making airway clearance more difficult. Be aware of irritants that you sense you may be allergic to. Take care to avoid irritants that cause skin irritation or dermatitis.
Some possible irritants to be aware of are perfumes and colognes, cigarette smoke, pollens from trees, grasses, and flowers, dust, air pollution, and aerosol sprays.
Indoor air quality can play a part in increasing or decreasing lung irritation.
More information is available at ntminfo.org.
INSIGHT - A Patient’s Perspective
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