Common triggers
The cause of asthma is not yet understood. Both genetic and environmental factors appear to play roles in asthma. Many people with asthma have allergic reactions to particles breathed in through the air, such as animal dander and pollen. These common substances are called allergens, meaning that they cause an allergic reaction. The tendency to react to allergens by having an asthma attack is probably genetic. There is no cure for asthma, although it can be controlled by learning to avoid asthma triggers and by taking medicine.
To help manage your asthma, learn what things start your asthma symptoms. Most asthma symptoms begin when your airways are bothered by something. These things are called triggers. Your symptoms will be reduced when you stay away from or control your triggers.
Which of the following trigger your asthma symptoms?
___Dogs, cats, or other animals
___Colds or flu
___Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds
___Dust
___Mold (indoor or outdoor)
___Strong odors from perfumes, paints, sprays, cooking
___Scented products
___Weather changes or very cold air
___Air pollution
___Crying, laughing, or yelling
___Stress or strong feelings
___Exercising - what type of exercise?
___Aspirin or other medicine
___Foods - which ones?
___Smoke from cigarettes or from burning wood, paper, or other items
This is not a complete list of all the things that can trigger asthma and you may have trouble with one or more of these triggers.
Source: National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute.
