Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects the airways leading to your lungs. The airways of people with asthma are sensitive and can become inflamed or swollen when exposed to certain triggers.

Once the airways are irritated, they become narrower, making it difficult for air to pass through. This leads to symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.

In this article, we’ll discuss ten triggers that can worsen asthma symptoms and how to avoid them.

1. Allergens

Allergens are substances that can cause an allergic reaction in some people. Common allergens that can worsen asthma symptoms include pollen, dust mites, animal dander, and mold.

When exposed to these allergens, the body produces an immune response that can cause inflammation in the airways.

To avoid allergens, it is recommended to keep your home clean and dust-free, vacuum regularly, and use air filters. It is also recommended to avoid places where allergens are present, such as fields of grass or petting zoos.

2. Exercise

Physical activity is important for leading a healthy lifestyle, but it can also trigger asthma symptoms in some people. Exercise-induced asthma is a type of asthma that is triggered by physical activity.

When you exercise, you breathe in large amounts of air quickly, which can cause irritation and inflammation in the airways.

To prevent exercise-induced asthma, it is recommended to warm up before exercising, breathe through your nose, and avoid exercising in cold temperatures. It is also recommended to carry your inhaler with you when exercising.

3. Tobacco Smoke

Tobacco smoke is a common trigger of asthma symptoms. Secondhand smoke can irritate the airways and cause inflammation, leading to breathing difficulties.

To avoid tobacco smoke, it is recommended to avoid places where smoking is allowed, such as bars and restaurants. You should also ask smokers to smoke outside your home and avoid smoking yourself.

4. Air Pollution

Air pollution can irritate the airways and cause inflammation, leading to asthma symptoms. Common sources of air pollution include vehicle exhaust, industrial emissions, and smoke from fires.

To avoid air pollution, it is recommended to stay indoors on days with high pollution levels, use public transportation, and support clean air initiatives.

5. Cold Air

Cold air can irritate the airways and cause inflammation, leading to asthma symptoms. Cold air can also cause the airways to produce more mucus, making it difficult to breathe.

To avoid cold air, it is recommended to cover your mouth and nose with a scarf when going outside, breathe through your nose, and avoid exercising in cold temperatures.

6. Strong Emotions

Strong emotions such as stress, anxiety, and excitement can trigger asthma symptoms in some people. When you experience strong emotions, your body releases hormones that can cause inflammation in the airways.

To prevent asthma symptoms triggered by strong emotions, it is recommended to practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga.

7. Certain Medications

Some medications can trigger asthma symptoms in some people. Common medications that can worsen asthma symptoms include aspirin, beta-blockers, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

To prevent asthma symptoms triggered by medications, it is recommended to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any new medications, and to inform them about your asthma diagnosis.

8. Foods

Certain foods can trigger asthma symptoms in some people. Common foods that can worsen asthma symptoms include dairy products, eggs, nuts, and shellfish.

When you eat these foods, your body can have an allergic reaction that leads to inflammation in the airways.

To prevent asthma symptoms triggered by foods, it is recommended to avoid foods that trigger your symptoms, and to consult with an allergist to determine which foods to avoid.

9. Respiratory Infections

Respiratory infections such as colds and flu can worsen asthma symptoms by causing inflammation and narrowing of the airways.

To prevent respiratory infections, it is recommended to wash your hands frequently, avoid close contact with sick people, and get vaccinated against flu.

10. Chemical Irritants

Chemical irritants such as cleaning products, perfumes, and air fresheners can irritate the airways and cause inflammation, leading to asthma symptoms.

To avoid chemical irritants, it is recommended to use natural cleaning products, avoid scented products, and open windows for ventilation.