Common Asthma Triggers

It’s spring! A lot of people await warmer weather, the blooming of flowers, and longer days. Unfortunately, for asthma sufferers, this also means that asthma triggers are going to make their seasonal appearance.

Asthma is a chronic and potentially life-threatening condition that is caused by inflammation of the lungs. This condition is typically caused by triggers in the environment. The majority of asthma sufferers experience attacks when they come in contact with allergens. During an asthma attack, the muscles in the airway tighten, become inflamed and you start to experience coughing, wheezing, a tightening of your chest, and shortness of breath.

It pays to be prepared. Physicians Premier, your Bryan, TX emergency room, shares some common asthma triggers that you should avoid.

1. Allergies – Many asthma sufferers have allergies. Common allergens like animal dander, dust mites, pollen, and molds are unavoidable in Texas. However, knowing which of the allergens are a trigger for you will help you take preventive measures to lessen the potential for asthma flare-ups.

2. Pollen – This is most likely the most obvious springtime offender. During springtime, weeds, flowers, grass, and plants start to bloom and release pollen into the air.

3. Dust mites – The effects of dust mites can be reduced by keeping your home clean and using specialized covers for your pillows and bed. It’s best if you get rid of stuffed animals, too.

4. Pets – Sadly, pets are magnets for dust mites. If you own a pet, be sure to bathe them on a regular basis.

5. Cockroaches – The droppings of cockroaches can trigger allergies.

6. Tobacco smoke – This is one of the greatest allergy triggers, and this goes without saying. If you are a smoker, we have a simple answer: quit. Asthma sufferers should also avoid secondhand smoke.

7. Mold – Keep your home well-ventilated, and be sure to seal up areas in your home that may allow humidity and unwanted moisture to come in.

8. Medications – Several medications can also aggravate asthma symptoms. Examples are ibuprofen, aspirin, migraine medication, blood pressure medication, and glaucoma medication.

9. Changes in the weather – Dry, cold air – any temperature changes can put stress in your lungs and make your symptoms worse.

10. Stress and anxiety – Allowing the daily pressures of life and not getting adequate rest may make you more susceptible to an asthma attack.

If you need help in managing your asthma or need more information on how to avoid an asthma attack, feel free to reach out to us at Physicians Premier,  your Bryan, TX emergency room.

Sources:

“What are asthma triggers?” National Asthma Council, https://www.nationalasthma.org.au/understanding-asthma/what-are-asthma-triggers.

“Reduce Asthma Triggers.” American Lung Association, https://www.lung.org/lung-health-and-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/asthma/living-with-asthma/managing-asthma/reduce-asthma-triggers.html.   

“What Causes or Triggers Asthma?” Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, https://www.aafa.org/asthma-triggers-causes/.