What can trigger asthma?
Asthma has been around for some time now, but medical researchers have not yet identified its origin. Symptoms of asthma can vary from a patient to another. It is therefore important to understand what triggers your attacks. This article will outline several causes, read on.
Infections of the upper respiratory organs like colds and flu are known to trigger an asthma attack. If you have had a history of asthma attack be prepared in case you contact such infections.- Irritants in the air like dust, fumes, cigarette smoke, and pollution can cause an attack. They are referred to as airborne irritants in other words. The named irritants can trigger an asthma attack anytime anywhere. Patients are advised to stay away from the pollutants to prevent attacks.
- Do not confuse allergens with irritants. Allergens include elements like feathers, dust mites, animal fur, and pollen. They are known to trigger asthma attacks as well. Just like irritants, make sure to stay away from all the above to prevent attacks.
- Stress and laughter can trigger asthma attacks. Sounds weird right? If you are this type of a patient, try as much as you can stay calm and stress-free to avoid asthma attacks.
- Taking medications like non-steroidal painkillers can trigger an attack. Asthmatic patients are advised only to take medicines on doctor’s prescription and avoid over the counter drugs. All this is for your good.
- Food additives. Additives with tartrazine and sulfites can trigger asthma. Manufacturers add additives to foods to improve their quality and preserve them. Asthma patients might, however, suffer attacks after consuming foods with those additives.
It is best if asthma patients stay away from alcohol. Taking alcohol might be making your situation worse. In many cases, the patients are allergic to alcohol and alcohol ingredients which affect their health.- Indoor conditions like chemicals, mold, and damp in the house from things like carpet can trigger asthma attacks. This calls for a lot of considerations when choosing your carpets and floorings.
- Strong fragrances like air fresheners and scented candles irritate the airways, and this results in allergic reactions.
- Weather conditions like humidity, wind and too hot or cold days can result in an asthma attack. Do all you can to protect yourself from such conditions?