Asthmatics experience attacks whenever they’re exposed to certain triggers. Yet, what might trigger others, might not trigger you. If you’re experiencing asthma attacks and you’re unsure of what might be causing them, then keep reading to learn about the common asthma triggers and how to avoid them.
1. Dust
Lots of people are allergic to dust, and it’s nearly everywhere—under your bed, your living room coffee table, your ceiling fan, your office table, and the list goes on. Dust is considered a top asthma trigger, and one way to protect yourself from dust is by proofing your mattress and sofa with a protective cover. Also, dust-proof wraps for your pillows help in the prevention of having dust settle.
Dust loves to settle in rugs and carpets as well. Vacuuming your floors regularly will help keep them dust-free.
2. Mold
One of the most common asthma triggers is mold. Mold is harmful to anyone’s health, but the toxic spores it releases into the air can cause a serious asthma attack. If your home is prone to mold, then you may have to find ways to control the dampness in spaces such as your bathroom or basement.
For example, a dehumidifier is a great investment if you live in an area where humidity is a concern.
3. Fur
As adorable as pets and animals can be, their fur can also trigger an asthma attack in people that are allergic to them. And their fur is not the only asthma trigger. Certain proteins found in the saliva, urine, and skin of the animal can also trigger an asthma episode.
If you think your pets are triggering your asthma, then try to keep them off the couches and beds. Make sure you also bathe them frequently. And if that isn’t enough, you can always purchase special asthma treatment, such as generic Advair, to help you keep it under control.
4. Air Triggers
Certain particles in the air can also cause your asthma to flare up, such as pollen, cigarette smoke, air pollution, and fumes. Pollen, however, is usually the most troublesome, as it’s pretty much everywhere—flowers, trees, and grasses.
It’s hard to avoid pollen, as it’s present throughout most of the year. Yet, you can reduce your exposure to it by using air conditioning instead of leaving a window open, for example. You can also avoid going outside while pollen is at its peak.
5. Allergies
Aside from the allergens mentioned above, there are other types of things allergies that can trigger an asthma attack. For example, certain food allergies, such as nuts or shellfish, can cause an asthma attack. Always ask and make sure that the food you’re allergic to isn’t included in the dish you’re going to eat to prevent a potential episode.
6. Weather Conditions
Surprisingly, the weather can cause asthma attacks in certain people. Dry cold air, for example, irritates your lungs’ airways and can make them swell up, making you wheeze or cough. And hotter weather, like spring or summer, brings a lot more pollen into the air, which, as you read earlier, can trigger an asthma attack.
Avoid These Common Asthma Triggers
If you suspect that one of these common asthma triggers is provoking your asthma attacks, contact your doctor to schedule an allergy test. This way, you can confirm what allergens cause your asthma to flare up.
