Guest Author - Amy Anaruk

Each case of asthma is unique with its own particular set of triggers. Here are the most commonly recognized ones.


Allergens

1. Tree pollen
2. Grass pollen
3. Weed pollen
4. Mold
5. Animal dander, especially from household cats and dogs
6. Dust mites
7. Cockroach droppings
8. Food--including dairy, eggs, seafood, peanuts and other nuts, wheat, soy, additives like sulfites

Weather
1. Windy weather in the early fall or spring
2. Changes in barometric pressure
3. Changes in humidity
4. Extreme changes in temperature
5. Very cold and/or dry air

Air Irritants
1. Pollutants like industrial chemicals
2. High ozone levels in the summer
3. Air fresheners
4. Commercial cleaning products, including bleach
5. Paint
6. Varnish
7. Scented candles
8. Pesticides
9. Cigarette smoke
10. Smoke from woodburning fires
11. Perfume
12. Hairspray
13. Gases
14. Coal dust
15. Chalk dust
16. Talcum powder

Illness
1. Colds
2. Sinus Infections
3. Bronchitis
4. Sore throats
5. Influenza
6. Pneumonia

Medication
1. Aspirin
2. Other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
3. Beta blockers

Emotions
1. Excessive laughing
2. Excessive crying
3. Excessive yelling
4. Anxiety
5. Panic

Exercise
While exercise can be a major trigger for some, doctors don't recommend that you stop exercising or keep your asthmatic child from leading an active life. Swimming is generally recognized as the form of exercise least likely to aggravate asthma, but indoor chlorinated pools can trigger a flare since the chlorine gas builds up inside. Exercise-induced asthma may mean pre-treatment with a relief inhaler.

Reflux
Treating reflux often helps alleviate some asthma symptoms.


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"Smile, breathe and go slowly." -Thich Nhat Hanh



This article is not written by a medical professional, and information on this page should never be substituted for your physcian�s advice. If you have any questions about your asthma and/or allergies, you should always contact your physician first.