Identifying Asthma Triggers
Date: 05/18/22
An asthma trigger is a thing, activity or condition that makes asthma worse. When you encounter a trigger it can cause a sudden worsening of symptoms, often called an asthma attack, episode or flare-up.
The American Lung Association offers ways to identify your asthma triggers and learn simple ways to limit your exposure or avoid them altogether.
Common asthma triggers include:
- Respiratory infections
- Allergens
- Irritants
- Exercise
- Emotions
Knowing what causes your asthma symptoms is an important step toward controlling your asthma. Allergy testing may help you identify your triggers. Your healthcare provider can help you recognize what makes your asthma worse and help find simple solutions to reduce and avoid asthma triggers.
Some of the most common asthma triggers include:
- Medical Conditions. Respiratory Infections, such as a cold, flu or sinus infection, are the most common causes of asthma symptoms leading to asthma flare-ups.
- Food and Medicines. Asthma can be triggered by food allergies and medicines. Discuss any over-the-counter or prescription medicines you take such as aspirin, fever-reducers or anti-inflammatories with your healthcare provider.
- Weather, Pollen, and Air Pollution. Changes in the season can bring on an asthma episode due to increased pollen in the air. Limit your time outdoors during high pollen times of the year such as spring and fall. Also, extreme temperatures (hot and cold) can trigger asthma symptoms.
- Animals. Dander and saliva from animals with fur or feathers can be an allergen for some and can cause asthma symptoms.
- Emotions. Every day comes with its ups and down emotionally. It's important to remember that strong emotions can increase rapid breathing and trigger asthma symptoms.
Superior members can find additional asthma resources at SuperiorHealthPlan.com/asthma.