Reduce Asthma Triggers

Respiratory Infections, such as a cold, flu or sinus infection, are the most common causes of asthma symptoms leading to asthma flare-ups. Frequent hand washing and avoiding people who are sick will help reduce your exposure to cold and flu. But, the best way to prevent influenza is to get a flu vaccine every year. Medical conditions such as acid reflux can also worsen asthma symptoms.

TRIGGER EXAMPLES

• Respiratory infections (colds, flu, sinus infections)
• Pregnancy hormones
• Acid reflux

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, along with any alternative therapies or herbal remedies that may impact your asthma.

TRIGGER EXAMPLES

• Common food allergies (peanuts and shellfish)
• Aspirin
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

All types of smoke can make it hard to breathe, including smoke from cigarettes, wood-burning fireplaces and burning leaves. If you smoke, you should make a plan to quit. If you don't smoke, but live with someone who does, discuss ways to avoid or limit your exposure to tobacco smoke. The American Lung Association offers many ways to help smokers quit. Contact the American Lung Association Lung HelpLine at 1-800-586-4872 to speak with a smoking cessation counselor.

TRIGGER EXAMPLES

• Cigarette, cigar or pipe smoke
• Fireplace, campfire or leaf-burning smoke

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. Prepare for the weather before you leave your home by checking the pollen count and air quality index.

TRIGGER EXAMPLES

• Cold, windy or stormy weather
• Sudden or extreme temperature changes
• High humidity
• Weeds, trees and grass
• Air pollution, smog, vehicle exhaust and fumes

Dander and saliva from animals with fur or feathers can be an allergen for some and can cause asthma symptoms. Reduce your exposure to pet allergens by vacuuming and damp dusting weekly. Try to keep your pets out of the bedroom or other rooms where you spend a lot of time. You might also consider bathing and changing clothes after playing with furred pets. 

TRIGGER EXAMPLES

• Birds
• Cats, dogs, ferrets, hamsters, Guinea pigs, bunnies or mice

Pests in the home, workplace or school can impact your asthma. To reduce your exposure, wash bedding regularly, fix leaks, store garbage outside, vacuum and dust weekly. If you're allergic to dust mites, use allergen-proof pillows and mattress covers.

TRIGGER EXAMPLES

• Dust mites
• Cockroaches
• Rodents such as mice and rats

Mold is an allergen that can trigger asthma symptoms. You can reduce your exposure to mold by cleaning visible mold, throwing away moldy items, running a dehumidifier and using the exhaust fan when taking a shower. Clean mold with mild soap, hot water and a strong brush.

Staying active is very important to your overall health and wellbeing, especially for those with asthma. If exercise causes your asthma symptoms, use your quick-relief medicine 15 to 30 minutes before physical activity if prescribed. Remember to monitor the air quality if you plan to exercise outside.

TRIGGER EXAMPLES

• Walking, climbing stairs
• Intense exercise
• Sports
• Swimming

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. Stress, both personal and work-related, can be a major trigger as well.

TRIGGER EXAMPLES

• Laughing or crying too hard
• Feeling stressed or anxious
• Anger
• Fear
• Yelling

Scents from perfumes, deodorants and cleaning supplies can affect a person with asthma. When possible, choose cleaning and personal care products that are odor- and fragrance-free.

TRIGGER EXAMPLES

• Cleaning products
• Gas Stoves
• Scented candles and incense
• Hairspray
• Air fresheners
• Personal care products