Asthma triggers are substances or conditions like confirmed food allergy that can irritate the airways and lead to an asthma attack. These vary among individuals, but common triggers include:
Allergens
Pollen, dust mites, pet dander (from animals like cats, dogs), mold spores, cockroach droppings.
Respiratory infections
Colds, flu, bronchitis, sinusitis.
Physical activity
Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) can occur in some individuals.
Certain medications
Beta-blockers, aspirin, and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can trigger asthma in some sensitive individuals.
Irritants
Tobacco smoke (firsthand and secondhand), air pollution (smog, vehicle exhaust, industrial emissions), droppings, certain food or chemicals, strong odors (perfumes, cleaning products), chemical fumes, cold and dry air.
Weather changes
Cold air, high humidity, thunderstorms.
Strong emotions
Stress, crying, laughing, shouting can trigger symptoms in some people.
