What Triggers Your Asthma?

Asthma cases are on the rise in the U.S., with African-Americans, Hispanics, and inner-city dwellers being hit the hardest. The good new is— by learning about your condition and how to prevent attacks—you’ll find that asthma is as manageable as ever.

Homing in on Triggers

Asthma “triggers,” irritants in the environment, can cause airways to narrow. This often leads to an asthma attack. Since triggers vary from person to person, the first step is learning which ones cause your attacks. The most common culprits include:

• Dust
• Pollen from trees, grass, or weeds
• Mold
• Tobacco smoke
• Pet dander
• Cold air or humidity
• Dust mites.

Medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, can bring on asthma episodes. An attack also can be prompted by foods, such as eggs, shellfish, and wheat. Finally, stress and vigorous exercise can affect asthma.

Take Preventive Action

To dodge many asthma triggers:

• Dust your home often with a damp cloth. Vacuum carpets with machines that have high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters.
• Stay indoors—with windows closed—when pollen or mold counts are high.
• Keep your home mold free.
• Don’t smoke, and avoid secondhand smoke.
• Keep pets off furniture and carpeting and out of bedrooms.
• On windy days, cover your nose and mouth.
• Control dust mites. Wash blankets, sheets, and bedcovers once a week in water hotter than 130 degrees Fahrenheit. Cover mattresses, box springs, and pillows in allergen-proof covers.

Serious Attacks Need Medical Attention

Many attacks start slowly. Signs include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or tightness in the chest. If you ignore these signs, your attack may become life threatening.

You will need immediate medical attention if you develop any one of the following:

• Extreme wheezing and breathlessness
• Difficulty talking or walking
• Blue lips and fingernails.

May/June 2006 A Healthy Tomorrow

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