Awareness is key when it comes to asthma, an allergic airway disease that affects millions of people across the world. While asthma can have an impact on your daily health and activities, becoming aware of potential triggers can help you stay ahead of any flare-ups or worsening of symptoms. From pollen and air pollution to specific foods and animals, here are 7 common asthma triggers that you should be aware of.
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1. Pollen
Pollen is a major trigger of asthma and other allergies. Depending on the season, the most common triggers are grass, tree, and weed pollen. These types of pollen are lightweight, which means they can be easily carried in the air and inhaled. Pollen can also settle on the ground and clothes, or cling to your skin and fur, triggering a reaction.
2. Dust Mites
It’s not just pollen that can trigger an asthma attack. Dust mites also damage the airways by triggering allergens like dust mite feces. These common indoor allergens are found in bedding, upholstery, and carpets and are not visible to the naked eye.
3. Mold & Fungus
Mold and fungus spores are two more common indoor allergens that can trigger similar reactions to dust mite feces. Mold and fungus are often found in poorly ventilated and humid areas like basements, bathrooms, and laundry rooms, and can cause inflammation in the airways.
4. Air Pollution
High levels of air pollution can damage the airways, and can potentially worsen asthma symptoms. Outdoor air pollution can come from many sources like construction sites and vehicle exhaust. You can limit your exposure to air pollution by avoiding congested areas or taking public transportation.
5. Cold & Flu
Cold and flu season is a tough time for asthmatics since respiratory infections can worsen symptoms. Try to avoid contact with people who may have a cold or flu, get the flu shot every year, and wash your hands regularly to prevent the spread of germs.
6. Certain Foods
Foods like egg, cow’s milk, soy, peanuts, fish, and wheat can all trigger allergic reactions in asthmatics. Food additives like sulfite and MSG can also cause inflammation of the airways, so it’s important to avoid any foods that contain them.
7. Animals
Pets, particularly cats, can be a major source of airborne allergens. If you have cats, make sure to bathe them weekly to reduce allergens on their fur. If you’re allergic yourself, it might be best to avoid contact with animals who are likely to trigger a reaction.
Health Tips for Asthmatics
To stay ahead of any potential asthma trigger, it is important to take certain precautions. Here are some tips to help you stay healthy, even if your asthma is triggered:
- Keep an Asthma Action Plan: This is a detailed written plan that outlines which medications to take, how much to take, and when to take them.
- Monitor Your Symptoms: Keeping track of your symptoms – such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath – and sharing that info with a doctor. This is a key part of controlling asthma.
- Do Regular Exercise: Exercise is important for overall health and can also help individuals with asthma better control their symptoms. Physical activity can improve lung function, reduce inflammation, and help with breathing.
- Avoid Triggers: It is important to be aware of common asthma triggers and take steps to avoid them, such as avoiding animals, staying indoors when the air quality is poor, and wearing a face mask when outdoors.
By becoming aware of common asthma triggers and taking certain precautions, you can be prepared in the event of an asthma flare-up. Understanding your condition is key for staying healthy, so it’s essential to talk to your doctor and create an asthma action plan.