Common Asthma Triggers

Environmental Allergies

If you have asthma, it's essential to know what can stimulate your symptoms and even set off an attack. These substances are commonly referred to as asthma triggers, which can differ from person to person. Knowing your triggers can help you to avoid an attack.

Smoke

Whether it’s from tobacco products, burning wood, or burning grass, smoke is made up of harmful gases and chemicals that can cause an asthma attack when inhaled. If you are a smoker, it is recommended that you quit to prevent negative health effects. If you aren’t a smoker, it is advised that you do not start and actively avoid secondhand smoke.

Dust Mites

Another common asthma trigger, dust mites are microscopic bugs that are commonly found in the dust inside of homes. These tiny pests feed on dead skin and dander shed by humans and pets alike, living in mattresses, carpets, and other fabric-clad items in your home.

Some tips to help you eliminate these asthma-triggering pests include:

• Avoid down-filled pillows, comforters, and quilts
• Use mattress covers
• Vacuum carpets and rugs regularly
• Wash your bedding weekly in hot water
• Use a damp rag to dust your furniture

Pet Dander

While we love our furry friends, they can be responsible for causing asthma attacks. The proteins found in household pets’ dander, saliva, and urine can aggravate asthma symptoms. Pets with long hair can also track pollen, dust, mold spores, and other outdoor allergens into your home.

While giving your pet a new home is an option, it isn’t always necessary. Here are some tips to help keep your pet-related triggers at bay:

• Vacuum your home often
• Bathe your pet once weekly if appropriate
• Use a damp mop to clean hard-floors

Pollen and Grasses

Pollen and grass allergies, commonly referred to as hay fever, are also common asthma triggers. During the spring and summer, plants tend to release small pollens grains to fertilizes other plants and reproduce. The pollen that causes allergic reactions and exacerbates asthma symptoms are from grasses, trees, and weeds, which are small enough to be carried by the wind and small animals.

Some ways to reduce allergic reactions and asthma attacks caused by pollen and grasses include:

• Washing your hands after being outdoors
• Use central air conditioning rather than opening windows
• Use an allergy-friendly air filter in your home
• Limit contact with pets that spend most of the time outdoors
• Change your clothes when coming inside from outdoor activities

When to Seek Help