Common Triggers for Asthma

Common Triggers for Asthma

An asthma attack can happen anytime and it can be triggered by various smells, substances, and foods. Asthma triggers can vary from person to person. However, there are some common triggers for asthma such as follows.

Food
Food allergies can lead to asthma symptoms. People are usually allergic to shrimp, peanuts, salads, eggs, soy, cow’s milk, wheat, eggs, and tree nuts. Some people are allergic to certain food preservatives such as potassium metabisulfite and sodium bisulfite.

Pets
Pet dander can lead to asthma symptoms. If you have a pet and you feel that he might be causing your asthma triggers, then you can think about rehoming him. Else, it is best if you bathe him once weekly and try to keep him outside.

Medications
Medications are one of the common triggers for asthma. Your asthma can be triggered by anti-inflammatory drugs or beta-blockers. This is generally the case if you have asthma that is induced by taking aspirin.

Tobacco smoke
Tobacco smoke is not good for anyone and it is one of the most common asthma triggers. If you smoke and have asthma, then consider quitting smoking. If someone else is smoking nearby, then move away from them or politely ask them to smoke elsewhere.

Heartburn
Research shows that more than 85% of people who have asthma experience heartburn too. This means heartburn can cause your asthma symptoms. This usually occurs when the stomach acid reaches your throat and causes irritation.

Mold
Mold is another of the common triggers for asthma. Mold is caused due to humidity and so you want to ensure you get rid of mold quickly. You can get a dehumidifier to lower humidity levels in your home and keep checking the humidity levels to be on the safe side.

Infections
Respiratory infections such as flu and sinus can lead to an asthma attack. They are one of the most common asthma triggers in children who are younger than 10. If you had an infection, then you might have an asthma attack a month or two after you had the infection.

Dust mites
Dust mites are one of the common triggers for asthma. These small insects can be found almost in any home. It is recommended that you wash your bedding once a week because dust mites can cause asthma symptoms.

Strong emotions
When you experience strong emotions then it can lead to asthma symptoms. If you are laughing too much or if you are feeling extremely anxious, then it can lead to asthma. Any stressful situation can lead to an asthma attack.

Exercise
Exercise is also one of the common triggers for asthma. Exercise leads to the narrowing of airways which can lead to asthma symptoms. You might have trouble breathing and chest tightness if your asthma is triggered due to exercise. Warming up before exercising is recommended.

Air pollution
Air pollution that is caused due to cars and factories can lead to symptoms of asthma. It is one of the most common triggers. You should ideally check the air quality before you step out of your home or try and plan accordingly so you don’t have to be in the polluted area for long.