What are some common asthma triggers?

Triggers are things that can cause asthma symptoms, an episode or attack or make asthma worse. People with asthma may have just one trigger, or they may find that several things act as triggers.

Common asthma triggers are:

Secondhand (cigarette) Smoke (see www.epa.gov/asthma/shs.html)

Cockroaches and Other Pests (see www.epa.gov/asthma/pests.html)

Pets and Dust (see www.epa.gov/asthma/dustmites.html)

Molds (see www.epa.gov/asthma/molds.html)

Outdoor Air Pollution

Cold viruses (see www.cdc.gov/cleanhandsor, www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/covercough.htm)

Running, Playing, and Exercise (see www.aafa.org/display.cfm?id=8&sub=17&cont=168 or www.aaaai.org/patients/publicedmat/tips/exerciseinducedasthma.stm)

Be sure to work with your doctor to identify your -- or your child's triggers.

Then take steps to control these triggers.

If you have any feedback on how we can make our new website better please do contact us. We would like to hear from you.