Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that can cause difficulty in breathing, wheezing, coughing, and tightness in the chest. It is caused by the inflammation of airways, making them narrow and difficult to breathe through.

Asthma is mainly caused by genetic and environmental factors, which can trigger asthma attacks. Knowing the factors that trigger asthma is important to manage asthma and prevent flare-ups. In this article, we will discuss the top 30 factors that aggravate asthma.

1. Air Pollution

Polluted air is a common trigger of asthma attacks. Air pollution is caused by particles and gases released by vehicles, factories, and other sources. Breathing in polluted air can irritate the airways and cause inflammation, leading to asthma symptoms.

Children living in areas with high air pollution are more likely to develop asthma.

2. Allergens

Allergens are substances that cause an allergic reaction in some people. Common allergens that trigger asthma include dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and mold.

Exposure to allergens can cause swelling and narrowing of the airways, leading to asthma symptoms.

3. Cold Air

Cold air can irritate the airways and cause them to narrow, making it difficult to breathe. Asthma symptoms are often worse in cold weather or when exercising in cold weather.

4. Exercise

Exercise-induced asthma is a common type of asthma triggered by physical activity. Vigorous exercise can cause shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing in people with asthma.

However, regular exercise can help improve lung function and reduce asthma symptoms over time.

5. Respiratory Infections

Respiratory infections, such as the flu or cold, can trigger asthma attacks. People with asthma are more susceptible to respiratory infections and should take extra precautions to avoid exposure.

6. Strong Emotions

Strong emotions, such as excitement, stress, or anxiety, can trigger asthma attacks in some people. It is important to manage stress and emotions to prevent asthma symptoms.

7. Tobacco Smoke

Tobacco smoke is a common trigger of asthma and can worsen asthma symptoms. Exposure to secondhand smoke is also a risk factor for developing asthma.

8. Occupational Exposure

Exposure to chemicals and dust in the workplace can trigger asthma in some people. People in jobs that involve exposure to chemicals and dust should take extra precautions to prevent asthma symptoms.

9. Medications

Some medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, can trigger asthma attacks in some people. It is important to inform health care providers of any allergies or asthma when prescribing medications.

10. Acid Reflux

Acid reflux can irritate the airways and trigger asthma symptoms. People with both asthma and acid reflux may need additional treatment to manage their symptoms.

11. Sulfites

Sulfites are food additives used to preserve food. Some people with asthma are sensitive to sulfites and can experience asthma symptoms after eating foods that contain them, such as wine and dried fruits.

12. Hormonal Changes

Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle or pregnancy can trigger asthma symptoms in some women. Women with asthma should be aware of these triggers and work with their healthcare provider to manage their symptoms.

13. Food Allergies

Some people with asthma are sensitive to certain foods and can experience asthma symptoms after eating them. Common food allergens that trigger asthma include nuts, shellfish, and eggs.

14. Cockroaches

Cockroach droppings and body parts can trigger asthma symptoms in some people. Keeping a clean and hygienic home can help prevent cockroach infestations.

15. Perfumes and Fragrances

Perfumes and fragrances can irritate the airways and trigger asthma symptoms in some people. Strong odors should be avoided, and fragrance-free products should be used when possible.

16. Smoke from Wood-Burning Stoves

Smoke from wood-burning stoves can irritate the airways and trigger asthma symptoms. People with asthma should avoid exposure to wood smoke.

17. Alcohol

Alcohol can cause the airways to narrow and trigger asthma symptoms in some people. It is important to know your triggers and avoid alcohol if it triggers your symptoms.

18. Viral Infections

Viral infections, such as the common cold and flu, can worsen asthma symptoms and trigger asthma attacks. It is important to practice good hygiene and take precautions to avoid getting sick.

19. Weather Changes

Changes in weather, such as changes in temperature, humidity, or barometric pressure can trigger asthma symptoms. People with asthma should be aware of these triggers and adjust their treatment plan accordingly.

20. Airborne Chemicals

Airborne chemicals, such as those from cleaning products, pesticides, and perfumes, can irritate the airways and trigger asthma symptoms. It is important to use these products in well-ventilated areas and take precautions to avoid exposure.

21. Airborne Irritants

Airborne irritants, such as fumes from paint, gasoline, and diesel exhaust can trigger asthma symptoms. It is important to avoid exposure to these irritants when possible.

22. Hormone Treatments

Hormone treatments can trigger asthma symptoms in some women. Women with asthma should talk to their healthcare provider before starting any hormone treatments.

23. Emotional Stress

Emotional stress can trigger asthma symptoms in some people. It is important to manage stress through relaxation techniques and other stress-management strategies.

24. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and aspirin can trigger asthma symptoms in some people. People with asthma should talk to their healthcare provider before taking any NSAIDs.

25. Chemical Sensitivity

Some people with asthma are sensitive to certain chemicals and can experience asthma symptoms after exposure. It is important to avoid exposure to these chemicals when possible.

26. Menstrual Cycle

Changes in hormone levels during the menstrual cycle can trigger asthma symptoms in some women. Women with asthma should be aware of these triggers and work with their healthcare provider to manage their symptoms.

27. Dust and Dust Mites

Dust and dust mites can trigger asthma symptoms in some people. Keeping a clean and hygienic home can help prevent dust and dust mite infestations.

28. Pet Hair and Dander

Pet hair and dander can trigger asthma symptoms in some people. It is important to keep pets out of bedrooms and living areas and to vacuum regularly.

29. Mold

Mold can grow in damp areas of the home, such as basements and bathrooms, and can trigger asthma symptoms. Keeping a dry and well-ventilated home can help prevent mold growth.

30. High Altitude

High altitude can trigger asthma symptoms in some people. It is important to adjust asthma medications and treatment plans accordingly when traveling to high altitudes.