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Asthma: Identifying Your Triggers
An asthma trigger is a factor that can decrease lung function and lead to sudden difficulty breathing and other symptoms of an asthma attack. When you are around a trigger, you are at increased risk for an asthma attack. A severe attack may mean you have to go to the hospital.
Some triggers are substances you may be allergic to (allergens). These triggers may include:
- House dust mites.
- Cockroaches.
- Animal dander.
- Indoor mold.
- Pollen.
Other triggers are not allergens—they can cause asthma symptoms, but you are not allergic to them. These include:
- Cigarette smoke and air pollution.
- Upper respiratory infections such as colds, influenza (flu), and sinusitis.
- Exercise. Many people with asthma have symptoms when they exercise.
- Dry, cold air.
- Medicines, such as beta-blockers, aspirin, and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
- In adults, hormones, including those involved in pregnancy and menstrual periods. Your symptoms may change just before or during periods.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Some experts debate whether GERD makes asthma worse. Studies have shown conflicting results as to whether GERD triggers asthma.1
Test Your Knowledge
A trigger is anything that can lead to an asthma attack.
TrueA trigger is anything that can lead to an asthma attack. A trigger can be irritants in the air, substances to which you are allergic, or other factors, such as respiratory viruses, exercise, or dry, cold air.
FalseA trigger is anything that can lead to an asthma attack. A trigger can be irritants in the air, substances to which you are allergic, or other factors, such as respiratory viruses, exercise, or dry, cold air.
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Asthma: Identifying Your Triggers
| By: | Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: March 17, 2011 |
| Medical Review: | E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine Lora J. Stewart | |
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
