Triggers

While the cause of asthma is unknown, we do know that a number of things can cause an asthma attack or asthma symptoms. When something causes an asthma attack or asthma symptoms, we call it an asthma “trigger”. When someone has asthma, their airways, the tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs, are more sensitive than normal. As a result they quickly narrow in response to a number of triggers. Not everybody is affected by the same triggers so it makes sense to identify those triggers that make your symptoms worse and to avoid them. Many people with asthma find that they are sensitive to more than one trigger. Some common asthma triggers are listed below.

    

 

 

Pollen

Pollen is made up of tiny particles released by trees, grass, flowers and certain weeds. Children with asthma may find their asthma symptoms are worse when the pollen counts are high, such as in Summer time. Check the Asthma Society website for the pollen forecast in your area. 

Dust Mites

The majority of children with asthma are allergic to house dust mites. Dust mites are so tiny, they are invisible to the naked eye. They can only be seen under a microscope! They live on dust particles which gather on soft materials such as materials, pillows, blankets, carpets and cuddly toys. A square foot of carpet can contain as many as 100,000 house dust mites! If dust mites are a trigger for your asthma it is best to use synthetic (not feather) pillows and duvet covers on your bed, use anti allergy bedding and change your pillow every 6 months.

Coughs and Colds

Asthma symptoms in children are commonly brought on by viral nose or throat infections or chest colds.

Irritants

Tobacco smoke is an extremely common trigger of asthma. Children with asthma should not be in an environment where there is tobacco smoke. It is essential for your health that you avoid tobacco smoke. Don’t be afraid to let an adult know that their smoke is bad for you. Other irritants which can cause asthma symptoms or make asthma symptoms worse include air pollution, aerosol deodorant, perfumes, gases and paint fumes.

Exercise

Some people find their asthma symptoms are triggered by exercise, this may be due to the irritant effect of cold air on the airways as you breath faster during exercise. Asthma symptoms caused by exercise are more commonly linked with field sports such as Gaelic Games, rugby, and soccer and occur less frequently with indoor swimming where the atmosphere is warm and moist. This is why some doctors recommend swimming for people with asthma. 
 

Pets

Up to 40% of children with asthma are allergic to cats. Most furry or hairy pets including dogs, rabbits and ponies can trigger symptoms in children who are allergic to animal hair and fluff.  

Weather

Breathing in cold air or fog or sudden drops in temperature are associated with an increase in asthma symptoms. In September, at the start of the cold season, there is typically a major increase in the number of asthma attacks.
 

Emotional Triggers Laughing, crying, stress and emotional disturbance may all trigger asthma attacks or an asthma symptoms.
 

 

                                                                                                                          

If dust mites are a trigger for your asthma it is advisable to use synthetic (not feather) pillows and duvet covers on your bed, use anti allergy bedding and change your pillow every 6 months.