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.
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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
Current as of: February 24, 2020
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review: John Pope MD - Pediatrics
E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Mary F. McNaughton Collins MD, MPH - Internal Medicine
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Current as of: February 24, 2020
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review: John Pope MD - Pediatrics & E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Mary F. McNaughton Collins MD, MPH - Internal Medicine