Health Topics

Trusted Information for a healthier you

Asthama

Triggers of Asthma:
Common Causes & How to Avoid Them

Asthma triggers are things in the air or in your environment that can cause your asthma symptoms to get worse. When you understand and avoid your triggers, you can better control your asthma and breathe easier.

What Are Asthma Triggers?

Asthma triggers are substances or conditions that irritate your airways or cause inflammation. When you come in contact with a trigger, your airways can become narrow and inflamed, leading to asthma symptoms or an asthma attack.

Common Asthma Triggers

Triggers can vary from person to person. Here are some of the most common triggers:

Allergens

Pollen, dust mites, mold, pet dander, and cockroaches.

Respiratory Infections

Colds, flu, and other viral infections can trigger symptoms.

Environmental Triggers

Smoke, air pollution, strong odors, chemical fumes, and dust.

Lifestyle Triggers

Exercise, cold air, weather changes, and poor air quality.

Emotional Triggers

Stress, strong emotions, and anxiety can trigger symptoms.

Other Triggers

Certain medicines, foods, additives, and hormonal changes.

How Triggers Affect Your Airways

When you are exposed to a trigger, your airways can become inflamed and narrow. Extra mucus may be produced, making it harder for air to flow in and out of your lungs.

Avoiding Triggers Can Help Prevent Asthma Attacks

Knowing your triggers is an important step in managing asthma and improving your quality of life.

Learn how triggers affect your asthma

Quick Tips

  • Identify your triggers
  • Avoid or reduce exposure
  • Follow your action plan
  • Keep your medication with you
  • Monitor your symptoms regularly
Manage your asthma better
Important

Everyone's asthma is different. What triggers symptoms in one person may not affect another. Work with your doctor to identify your specific triggers.