What Triggers Asthma?

Asthma symptoms and attacks can be triggered by exposure to a variety of toxic and non-toxic elements, irritants in the air, activities, and conditions that can aggravate your lungs. Triggers vary between sufferers, so it’s best to know your own triggers and avoid exposure to them as much as possible.

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Asthma Triggers

Here are some of the more common asthma triggers.

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Smoking

Tobacco-based smoke is a significant trigger that asthma sufferers should avoid at all costs.

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Food Sensitivities

Food allergies and sensitivities can adversely affect the immune system and trigger asthma symptoms.

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Exercise

Strenuous activity can make asthma symptoms worse in some sufferers, causing wheezing and tightness in your chest while exercising.

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Stress

Chronic stress can contribute to an increased risk of asthma attacks. Learning how to effectively manage stress can help reduce that risk.

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Dust Mites & Insects

These microscopic bugs are found in almost every home in the U.S., and they generate allergens that commonly trigger asthma symptoms.

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Allergies & Pollen

Allergens and pollen can trigger a reaction in your immune system that causes your airways to constrict and narrow, resulting in difficulty breathing.

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Air Quality & Pollution

The toxic elements in air pollution can affect respiratory tracts and inhibit breathing.

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Illnesses

Conditions such as the cold and flu, sinus infections, and even acid reflux, can trigger asthma symptoms.

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Medications

A number of common prescription and over-the-counter medicines can have the unfortunate side-effect of triggering asthma symptoms.

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Pets

Pet dander is another very common asthma trigger, and sufferers may experience an uptick in their symptoms when exposed to certain animals.

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Strong Odors

Strong odors and fragances can potentially trigger asthma symptoms or make them worse.

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Weather Changes

From high humidity levels in the summer to cold, dry air in the winter, changes in weather can trigger asthma symptoms.

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Struggling to Manage Your Asthma Triggers?

Check out the Live Well with Asthma section of our site to explore different tips and tricks for managing your asthma. We're here for every breath. Explore different ways to manage your asthma triggers at home, school, and work with our resources and tips.

Live Well with Asthma

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