Breathing Easy
The article below covers 10 asthma triggers and how you can reduce exposure or avoid them.
10 Common Asthma Triggers
Asthma triggers may irritate the airways of someone with asthma, causing a physiological response that leads to swelling of the airways. Asthma triggers include the following:
1. Pollen
Pollen is a microscopic egg-shaped grain produced by flowering plants. It may be carried by the wind and can lead to common allergy symptoms such as congestion and sneezing, as well as an exacerbation of asthma.
To reduce your exposure to pollen, consider the following:
- Monitor the pollen count and try to stay inside when counts are high.
- Wear sunglasses going outdoors.
- Wash your face when coming in from the outside to remove pollen from your face.
2. Dust Mites
Dust mites may live on soft surfaces, including carpets, soft furniture, mattresses and pillows. They are tiny organisms that cannot be seen by the human eye and feed on human skin.
To reduce exposure to dust mites:
- Vacuum regularly using a HEPA filter.
- Consider replacing carpeting with hardwood floors when possible.
- Use allergy-blocking bedding for your pillows and mattresses.
3. Cold Weather
Cold temperatures can irritate sensitive lungs and cause a release of histamine, which leads to airway inflammation. To reduce your risk of cold weather-related asthma attacks, consider the following:
- Avoid time spent outdoors when the weather is very cold and windy.
- Exercise indoors.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a scarf to reduce breathing in cold air.
4. Smoke
Smoke may include cigarette smoke, wildfire smoke or smoke from a campfire or fireplace. It may not be possible to avoid all exposure to smoke, but there are a few things you can do, such as
- Avoid smoking yourself.
- Try to limit exposure to second-hand smoke.
- Wear a mask if you have to go outside on smoky days.
5. Pet Dander
Pet dander, which are flakes of their skin, can trigger asthma symptoms. Saliva from your pet can also trigger asthma symptoms. To reduce pet dander:
- Keep pets off your furniture.
- Vacuum often.
- Wash your pet frequently.
6. Mold
Mold is typically found in places that hold moisture, such as your basement or bathroom. Mold produces spores that may get into the air, and when inhaled, can trigger asthma symptoms. To reduce mold exposure:
- Fix leaks as soon as possible.
- Use a dehumidifier.
- Use mold-resistant paint in your bathroom and kitchen.
7. Respiratory Infections
Respiratory infections such as RSV and the flu may also cause a worsening of asthma symptoms. Respiratory infections may contribute to inflammation and make narrowing of the airways more severe. To decrease your chances of developing a respiratory infection, consider the following:
- Wash your hands frequently.
- Consider getting a flu shot.
- Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
- Get plenty of exercise and sleep, and eat a healthy diet to keep your immune system functioning optimally.
8. Emotional Stress
In some cases, strong emotions such as excitement, fear and anger can cause breathing to change and may lead to asthma symptoms. It may not be possible to prevent all strong emotions. But you may be able to decrease stress by:
- Practice breathing exercises.
- Try meditation or yoga for relaxation.
- Get regular exercise to reduce stress.
9. Cockroaches
The saliva, feces and other body parts of cockroaches can trigger asthma symptoms. Cockroaches are very common in older buildings and homes. To decrease your risk of cockroaches:
- Seal cracks and crevices around your home.
- Store food properly.
- Keep your home clean and neat.
10. Chemical Irritants
Chemical irritants may be found in certain products you use in your home. For example, certain paints, pesticides, air fresheners and cleaners may contain chemicals that irritate the airways. To reduce exposure:
- Open windows and doors when using cleaning products.
- Always follow the instructions on the label.
- Consider using ingredients such as vinegar as a cleaning product.
Treatments for Asthma
In addition to reducing exposure to allergens, other treatments for asthma include those listed below.
- Bronchodilators: Bronchodilators relax the smooth muscles of your airways, promoting dilation. They may be short-acting or long-acting. Short-acting bronchodilators work quickly and may be taken at the first sign of asthma symptoms. Long-acting bronchodilators are taken as preventative medications, usually twice a day.
- Steroids: Asthma also causes inflammation. Steroids are taken as a preventative medication, usually once or twice a day, to decrease inflammation.
- Combination medications: Combination medications are also available that combine steroids and long-acting bronchodilators.
In cases of severe asthma, in which bronchodilators and steroids do not control symptoms, biologic medications may be recommended. Biologic medications are injected under the skin into the vein and help control severe asthma.
Individuals who have frequent asthma flare-ups or uncontrolled asthma should work with their physician to develop a comprehensive asthma treatment plan to control symptoms.
Read on to learn about some foods to avoid for heart health.