Breathe Easy
Asthma is a condition that affects the airways in your lungs, making it hard to breathe. For people with asthma, certain things can make your symptoms worse. These things are called "triggers." Understanding your triggers can help you avoid them and keep your asthma under control.
Top 10 Asthma Triggers You Should Avoid
1. Pollen
Pollen from trees, grasses and flowers is a common asthma trigger, especially during certain seasons. When pollen levels are high, it can cause your airways to swell and make it hard to breathe.
2. Dust Mites
Dust mites are tiny creatures that live in household dust. They can be found in bedding, carpets and furniture. Breathing in dust mites can cause asthma symptoms to flare up.
3. Pet Dander
Pet dander is made up of tiny flakes of skin and fur from animals like cats and dogs. For some people, breathing in pet dander can lead to asthma attacks.
4. Smoke
Smoke from cigarettes, wood fires or even burning candles can irritate the lungs and trigger asthma symptoms. It's important to avoid smoke if you have asthma.
5. Strong Odors
Strong smells from perfumes, cleaning products or cooking can cause asthma symptoms in some people. These odors can irritate the airways and make it harder to breathe.
6. Cold Air
Cold air can tighten the airways, making it difficult to breathe for people with asthma. During the winter months, it's important to keep warm and cover your mouth with a scarf when going outside.
7. Exercise
While exercise is important for staying healthy, it can sometimes trigger asthma symptoms, especially if the air is cold or dry. This is known as exercise-induced asthma.
8. Respiratory Infections
Colds, the flu or other respiratory infections can trigger asthma symptoms. These illnesses can cause inflammation in the airways, making it harder to breathe.
9. Allergies
Allergies to foods, pollen, mold or other substances can trigger asthma. When you're exposed to something you're allergic to, it can cause your airways to swell and make it hard to breathe.
10. Stress and Anxiety
Emotional stress or anxiety can sometimes trigger asthma symptoms. When you're stressed, your body releases chemicals that can cause your airways to tighten.
How to Manage Asthma Triggers
Knowing what triggers your asthma is the first step in managing it. Here are some tips to help you avoid triggers:
- Keep your home clean: Regularly vacuum, dust and wash bedding to reduce dust mites and pet dander.
- Avoid smoke: Stay away from smokers and avoid places where people smoke.
- Monitor the weather: Wear a scarf in cold weather and stay indoors on days with high pollen counts.
- Use medication as prescribed: If your doctor has prescribed asthma medication, take it as directed, especially before exercise or exposure to triggers.
- Stay healthy: Wash your hands regularly and get vaccinated against the flu to avoid respiratory infections.
Asthma Antagonists
By understanding and avoiding these common asthma triggers, you can keep your asthma under control and breathe easier. If you're unsure about what triggers your asthma or how to manage it, talk to your doctor. They can help you create a plan to stay healthy and avoid asthma attacks.