ASTHMA TRIGGERS

What are the causes of asthma? No one is sure what causes asthma, and, so far, there is no cure for it. However, we know that asthma is a chronic inflammatory lung disorder that can be controlled. With asthma, substances or conditions called triggers* cause air passages in the lungs to become inflamed and swollen. Things that trigger an asthma attack in one person may not be a problem for another.

Common asthma triggers include:

Pollen: Pollen comes from trees, weeds, and grasses.

Mold: Molds release spores into the air, which can trigger asthma symptoms. Molds grow in damp, humid places, such as basements, bathrooms, or piles of rotting leaves.

Animal dander: Animal dander is the flakes of skin from animals with fur or feathers, including cats, dogs, gerbils, hamsters, rabbits, mice, and birds.

Cockroaches: The dried droppings and remains of cockroaches can be asthma triggers. Cockroaches are attracted to water and to food that is left out or in open containers.

Dust mites: Dust mites are tiny creatures that can be found in bedding, carpets, upholstered sofas and chairs, stuffed toys, and curtains.

Cigarette smoke: Smoke from cigarettes, cigars, and pipes can be a trigger if you smoke or if you are exposed to secondhand smoke from others.

Indoor irritants: Asthma triggers in the home can include gases from furnaces or woodstoves and strong odors, such as those from paints, cleaning agents, or perfumes.

Other triggers include:

• Air pollution (smog)
• Breathing in cold air
• Exercise
• Certain foods (such as milk, eggs, peanuts, and soy)
• Sulfites in some foods and drinks (wine)
• Emotional stress and anxiety