Asthma Triggers
Topic Overview
An asthma trigger is a factor that can lead to sudden difficulty breathing or other symptoms of asthma (asthma attack).
Some triggers are substances a person may be allergic to (allergens). Allergens cause the body's natural defenses (immune system) to produce chemicals called immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies. These chemicals bind to allergens, causing inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to the lungs. The allergen may also cause asthma attacks. These triggers include:
- Pollen.
- Dust mites.
- Animal dander.
- Cockroach droppings.
- Mold.
Other triggers can cause asthma symptoms without affecting the body's immune system. These include:
- Cigarette smoke and air pollution.
- Viral infections, such as colds and influenza, and sinus and other upper respiratory infections.
- Exercise. Many people with asthma have symptoms when they exercise.
- Dry, cold air.
- Medicines, such as aspirin or beta-blockers.
- In adults, hormones, including those involved in pregnancy and menstrual periods (just before or during periods).
- Gastrointestinal reflux disease (GERD). GERD may make asthma worse for some people.
Health Tools
Health Tools help you make wise health decisions or take action to improve your health.
Related Information
References
Other Works Consulted
- Guarnieri M, Balmes JR (2014). Outdoor air pollution and asthma. Lancet, 383(9928): 1581-1592. DOI 10.1016/S0140-6736(14)60617-6. Accessed May 6, 2014.
Credits
ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer John Pope, MD, MPH - Pediatrics
E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Mary F. McNaughton-Collins, MD, MPH - Internal Medicine
Current as ofDecember 6, 2017
- Top of Page
Next Section:
Health Tools
Previous Section:
Topic Overview- Top of Page
Next Section:
Related Information
Previous Section:
Health Tools- Top of Page
Next Section:
References
Previous Section:
Related Information- Top of Page
Next Section:
Credits
Previous Section:
References- Top of Page
Current as of: December 6, 2017