Asthma triggers are anything that can cause an asthma attack, which is when the airways narrow and breathing becomes difficult. There are four main types of triggers that can cause an asthma attack, which include allergens, irritants, exercise, and emotions.
Allergens are substances that can trigger an asthma attack in people who are allergic to them. Common allergens include pollen, pet dander, dust mites, mold, and cockroaches. It is important to identify and avoid allergens if possible.
Irritants are substances that can irritate the airways and cause an asthma attack. Common irritants include smoke, air pollution, strong odors, strong perfumes, cleaning products, and paint fumes. Avoiding exposure to irritants is particularly important for those with asthma.
Exercise is another common trigger for asthma. Exercise-induced asthma is caused by the airways narrowing as a result of physical activity. It is important to warm up before exercising and carry an inhaler in case of an attack.
Emotions can also trigger an asthma attack. Stress, anxiety, fear, and excitement can all cause the airways to narrow, leading to difficulty breathing. It is important to manage stress and other emotions to avoid asthma attacks.
By avoiding allergens, irritants, overexertion during exercise, and managing emotions, those with asthma can reduce their risk of experiencing an asthma attack.