Asthma causes inflamed airways, which are sensitive to things that might not affect others. These things are known as triggers. However, asthma triggers often vary from one person to another. Some people react to a few triggers, while others react to many. If you have been diagnosed with duluth asthma, it is essential to keep track of the triggers that might worsen the condition. Because these symptoms don’t always happen immediately after exposure, this might take some time for detective work. Here is an exclusive look at the common asthma triggers.
Allergens
Various substances that cause allergies, commonly known as allergens, often trigger asthma. If you inhale the stuff you are allergic to, you might experience asthma symptoms. Some common allergens that cause allergic asthma include; pollen, cockroaches, molds, dust mites, rodents, and animal allergens such as pet dander.
Irritants In the Air
Irritants in the air can also trigger an asthma episode. Such irritants include; dust particles, wood fires, tobacco smoke, tobacco and cigarette products, air pollution, chemicals, strong fumes, odors, or vapors. Strong scents from perfumes, paint, soaps, and gasoline can all trigger asthma episodes. These irritants bother sensitive and inflamed airways.
Other Health Conditions
Certain health conditions can also trigger the symptoms of asthma. This is particularly when you have two or more diseases at the same time, what are known as comorbid conditions. Such health conditions include; obstructive sleep apnea, allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, obesity, pregnancy, nasal polyps, respiratory infections, and rhinitis.
Strong Emotions
When you express strong emotions, you start breathing intensely, even when you don’t have asthma. Such emotions include; fear, laughter, anger, excitement, crying, or yelling. But strong emotions can cause wheezing or other severe asthma symptoms for people with asthma.
Physical Activity or Exercise
Physical activities that make you breathe quicker or harder can trigger asthma symptoms. Exercising, particularly in cold air, can often trigger asthma. For instance, exercise-induced bronchoconstriction is triggered by physical activities which might impact asthmatic or non-asthmatic people. The symptoms might not appear after some minutes of continuous exercise. However, with the right treatment, you won’t be required to limit physical activity because it’s essential for everyone, even those with asthma.
Weather
Cold air, dry wind, or sudden temperature or weather changes can sometimes cause an asthma episode. Asthma patients can be affected by thunderstorm asthma when a thunderstorm hits with high humidity and pollen. The lightning normally breaks down the pollen grains into minor pieces. The windy weather during the storm scatters the particles around, making them easier to be inhaled.
Medications
Particular medications can trigger asthma. These include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and aspirin. More so, medicines referred to as beta blockers can make asthma more difficult to control.
Generally, the common asthma triggers include; air pollution, allergies, physical activity, health conditions, strong emotional weather changes, and some medications. Although there is no cure for asthma, it can be managed. Asthma cases are different in every patient, so you and your doctor will work on creating a customized treatment plan for you. Discuss with your healthcare provider about your asthma and its triggers. Also, ensure to communicate about any changes in your asthma management.