Here’s everything you need to know about asthma and the most common asthma triggers.
What is asthma?
“Asthma is a chronic lung disease that causes your airways to narrow and get inflamed, making it hard for you to breathe,” Dr. Victoria Glass, MD, a physician with the Farr Institute tells Parade. It can affect individuals of any age or gender, though it is more common in boys than girls. For some, it is a minor nuisance. For others, the condition can be life-threatening. However, while asthma cannot be cured, it can be treated and controlled.
What are the symptoms of asthma?
While asthma symptoms vary from person to person and attack to attack, most living with asthma will experience one or more of the following symptoms:
CoughingWheezingShortness of breathChest tightnessPainDifficulty breathing
What are the most common triggers?
As with the symptoms of asthma, the causes vary widely. “Some of the most common triggers for asthma patients include typical allergens, such as dust, pollen, smoke or pet hair,” Sean Marchese, a registered nurse at The Mesothelioma Center, tells Parade. “However, more insidious and less obvious triggers could be airborne pollution, pest infestations, mold, perfumes, certain foods or even stress.” Some known triggers of asthma attacks include:
Pets
While cute, your furry friend can cause an asthma attack in someone who is allergic. The CDC suggests rehoming pets if they are causing discomfort. “If you think a furry pet may be causing attacks, you may want to find the pet another home,” the CDC writes. “If you can’t or don’t want to find a new home for the pet, decrease your exposure.”
Pests
Another common asthma trigger is the household pest: Think cockroaches and mice. To reduce exposure to these pests, you should clean frequently—vacuuming, sweeping, and dusting at least three times a week. You should also keep your counters, sinks, tables, and floors free of clutter.
Dust mites
Dust mites are microscopic bugs that are in most homes. But if you have asthma and are allergic to dust mites, they can trigger an attack. To prevent attacks, the CDC recommends using allergen-proof mattress and pillowcase covers and washing your bedding weekly. Carpets, area rugs, and floors should be cleaned regularly using a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter.
Other allergens
Pollen, mold, mildew and other common allergens can be asthma triggers, whether you are allergic to them or not. “Get rid of mold in your home to help control your attacks,” the CDC explains. Treat mildew the same way, and consult with your doctor if you have seasonal allergies. Like asthma, allergies cannot be cured, but they can be managed.
Smoke
Cigarette smoke, tobacco smoke, fire smoke, and exhaust fumes can worsen asthma symptoms—with the former being particularly harmful to your health. Avoid smoking at all costs and steer clear of areas where secondhand smoke is present.
Exercise
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, another common trigger is exercise. “Exercise and other activities that make you breathe harder can affect your asthma. [What’s more,] exercise—especially in cold air—is a frequent asthma trigger… [this is] known as exercise-induced asthma (EIA).” The good news is that, with proper treatment, you do not need to limit your physical activity.
Stress
Did you know mood changes can cause asthma attacks? It’s true. When you experience strong emotions or stress your breathing changes, and this can trigger an attack. “Stress and anxiety can sometimes increase airway inflammation and trigger asthma symptoms,” an article from the American Academy of Pediatrics explains. To avoid this, practice mindfulness and work on ways to build your stress tolerance and resilience.
The weather
From dry wind and cold air to sudden temperature changes, the weather can sometimes bring on asthmatic episodes. “Cold and dry air can be irritating to the lungs, cause airway inflammation and trigger asthma flares,” the AAP writes. “This can happen on a cold-weather day or even after exposure to a cold air conditioner. Sudden temperature changes can also trigger an airway spasm and worsen asthma.” Talk to your doctor to treat weather-related attacks.
Sources
“2019 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) Data: Asthma.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Dr. Victoria Glass, MD, a practicing physician with the Farr Institute.Sean Marchese, a registered nurse “Common Asthma Triggers.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “What Causes or Triggers Asthma.” Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. “9 Asthma Triggers and What to do About Them.” Healthy Children by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
