Don't pet a pet. The best approach is to not have a pet that can trigger your asthma. The problem is not the hair of the animal but the dander - the dead, dry skin that flakes off. The animal licks the skin and the dander remains in its saliva. 

Watch what you eat. The question of whether foods trigger chronic asthma has yet to be answered. Some foods such as nuts, shellfish, milk, eggs and strawberries can result in an array of allergic responses including asthma symptoms. Eating away from home can sometimes be a problem. If you are incited to dinner and don't know what dinner will be, eat something at home before you leave so you won't be left hungry. 

Stay healthy. A problem in the upper aiways such as repiratory infection can cause trouble in lower airways -  the bronchial tubes and precipitate an asthma attack. For a person with asthma, maintaning good health can mean a dramatic lessening of symptoms. Doctors suggest that you stay away from people who have a cold or the flu, drink plenty of fluids and avoid getting overtired; otherwise, you will be more susceptible to infections. 

Exercise your options. For years, people with asthma have been told to avoid exercise because it would induce attacks. Research has shown, however that the more asthmatic exercise, the more exercise they can tolerate. In other words, you should partake in regular aerobic exrcise. It is recommended that you start by warming up with light exercise before more-vigorous workout. 

Take a deep breath. Breathing exercises provide a form of relaxation and can be of benefit to some patients during an asthma attack.You can practice controlled breathing, which concentrates on slow inhalations through the nose rather than panting breathing through the mouth. Before you begin, you should l\blow your nose to make sure that your air passages are clear of all foreign matter. Then sit in a chair in a comfortable position. Take a deep breath and feel your breath going as far sown as possible. Your abdomen should expand as you so this exercise. Exhale slowly, feeling your abdomen relax as your breath comes out of your nose. Repeat this exercise at least three times a day but never right after eating.  

Learn to relax. Since stress and emotional upsets can trigger asthma attacks, it may be helpful to set aside time each day - preferably the same time - to practice some form of relaxation.