Some breathing problems come on suddenly with little or no warning, while others are the result of diseases hidden in the body. It is difficult to prevent such problems from occurring. However, individuals can take steps to reduce the likelihood of encountering breathing problems, including:

• Avoiding tobacco smoke
  
  
• Exercising regularly
  
  
• Trying to avoid pollens, dust, molds and other allergens
  
  
• Maintaining a healthy diet
  
  
• Maintaining a healthy weight
  
  
• Washing hands frequently
  
  
• Receiving appropriate vaccines (e.g., pneumonia, whooping cough)
  
  
• Wearing a mask when working around dust, chemicals, solvents or paints

In addition, some medications may be prescribed to help a person prevent breathing problems associated with a condition, such as leukotriene modifiers (drugs that reduce airway inflammation) for asthma.