Asthma Triggers

What is asthma?

Asthma is a chronic lung disease that causes inflammation, swelling, and narrowing of the airways, making it difficult for a person to breathe.

In other words, people with asthma have inflamed and sensitive airways and are sensitive to things that may not bother other people. These airways become more inflamed and swollen through asthma triggers and attacks, and the muscles around the airways tighten. Asthma is not curable, but its symptoms can be controlled.

Asthma symptoms

Airway obstruction, pneumonia, and airway irritability are the three main symptoms of asthma. Asthma symptoms include:

• Coughing, especially at night or in the morning
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Tight chest, pain or pressure in the chest

Asthma attack

An asthma attack is when asthma symptoms suddenly get more severe and worse. In this condition, the airways become hard, swollen, or full of mucus.

Asthma triggers

Allergy-causing substances (allergens) can trigger asthma. The best way to reduce or prevent asthma attacks is to avoid contact with known allergens. Asthma triggers vary from person to person. Everyone should know their triggers and how to avoid them. Some of the most common triggers for asthma include:

Tobacco smoke

Tobacco smoke is unhealthy and harmful to everyone, especially asthmatics. If you have asthma, you should never smoke or be exposed to secondhand smoke. Cigarette smoke leads to severe asthma attacks.

Dust

Dust is a tiny, microscopic particle that is present in many places. Dust intensifies asthma attacks. To prevent asthma attacks, consider the following:

• Use anti-allergy mattress covers and pillowcases to block dust.
• Do not use pillows, duvets, or bedspreads full of fibers.
• Wash bedding regularly and weekly and dry thoroughly.
• The humidity level in the house should be between 30 and 50%.

Outdoor Air Pollution

Outdoor air pollution can trigger asthma. Air pollution is caused by smoke from factories, cars, and fires. It is best to pay attention to air quality predictions in the mass media before leaving home.

Pests

Cockroaches and other pests are often found where food is eaten, and crumbs are left behind. To control pests, consider the followings:

• Clean dishes immediately.
• Store food in airtight containers.
• Keep trash in a closed container.
• At least every 2 to 3 days, vacuum or sweep areas that might attract pests.
• Keep the sinks clean.
• Seal cracks or openings in cabinets, walls, baseboards, and around the plumbing.

Pets

Furry pets are a trigger for asthma attacks. In the first place, it is better to avoid keeping them at home. Otherwise, it is better to reduce your contact with these animals.

Molds and yeasts

Mold and yeasts grow in damp areas of the home, such as kitchens and bathrooms. To prevent the growth of mold, you should:

• Immediately dry areas exposed to moisture and water.
• Fix water leaks in plumbings faster.
• Tile or ceramic the walls of the bathroom and kitchen.
• Keep the humidity level as low as possible.
• Consider proper fan or windows for bathrooms.

Detergents and Disinfectants

People with asthma should try to follow these tips when using cleansers or disinfectants:

• Avoid over-consumption of these products.
• It is better to use safer detergents such as soap and water.
• Clean dirty surfaces thoroughly before disinfecting.
• Never mix disinfectant products.
• Choose antiseptic products that are less likely to trigger an asthma attack. For example, purchase products with no more than 3% hydrogen oxide.
• Avoid using bleach or ammonium quaternary compounds indoors. Also, limit their use as much as possible.
• Avoid using scented products. These perfumes can worsen asthma attacks.
• When using detergents and disinfectants, make sure there is adequate airflow or ventilation.
• Use protective equipment such as gloves, masks, and goggles.

Diseases

Diseases such as colds, flu-related infections, respiratory viruses such as SARS and corona, sinus infections, allergies, and gastroesophageal reflux can exacerbate asthma attacks.

Other Cases

• Some exercises that require a lot of inhaling and exhaling

Some medications, such as aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

• Bad weather such as a rainstorm or high humidity
• Breathing in cold and dry weather
• Some foods and food additives
• Fragrances
• Anxiety and emotional stress

Risk Factors for Asthma

• Having an allergy-related illness such as eczema, food allergies, or hay fever
• Having a family history of asthma
• History of bronchitis (a prevalent childhood lung infection)
• Exposure to tobacco smoke in childhood
• Smoking during pregnancy
• Premature birth
• Occupation (people who are exposed to chemicals and dust in their work environment.)
• Overweight and obesity
• Smoking
• Exposure to urban air pollution