Controlling Asthma: Know Your Triggers

An asthma attack can happen when you are exposed to an asthma trigger. Your triggers may be different from someone else's, so learn yours and how to avoid them.

Secondhand smoke

Smoke made by a smoker and breathed in by someone else can trigger an attack. If you have asthma, no one should smoke near you.

Dust mites

Microscopic bugs found in many homes. To prevent attacks:

• Use allergen-proof mattress and pillowcase covers.
• Avoid down-filled pillows, quilts and comforters.
• Wash bedding weekly and dry it completely.
• Vacuum regularly with a vacuum that has a HEPA filter.
• Keep relative humidity low, around 30–50%.

Air pollution

It can come from factories, cars or wildfire smoke. Follow the air quality forecasts on radio, television and the internet.

Cockroaches and other pests

They are often found where food is eaten and crumbs are left. To control them:

• Remove as many water and food sources as you can.
• Clean up dishes, crumbs and spills right away.
• Store food in airtight containers, and keep trash in a closed container.
• Often vacuum or sweep areas that might attract cockroaches or mice.
• Seal cracks in cabinets, walls, baseboards and around plumbing.
• Avoid sprays and foggers — they can cause attacks themselves.

Pets

Furry pets can trigger attacks if you are allergic to them. If you think a pet is the cause, you may want to find it another home. If you can't, or don't want to:

• Keep pets out of bedrooms.
• Wash furry pets.
• Use an air cleaner with a HEPA filter.
• Use allergen-proof mattress and pillow covers.

People with asthma are not allergic to a pet's fur, so trimming it won't help.

Mold

Breathing mold can trigger an attack whether or not you are allergic to it. Indoors it grows in damp places — kitchens, bathrooms, basements — and wherever there has been water damage. To reduce it:

• Dry damp or wet items within 24 to 48 hours.
• Fix water leaks as soon as you can.
• Replace moldy ceiling tiles and carpet.
• Use an air conditioner or dehumidifier to keep indoor humidity low — under 50%, checked more than once a day with a hygrometer.
• Scrub mold off hard surfaces with detergent and water, then dry completely.
• Run the bathroom exhaust fan or open the window when showering.

Other triggers

• Infections linked to flu, colds and RSV
• Sinus infections, allergies or pollen
• Breathing in some chemicals or fragrances
• Acid reflux
• Bad weather, such as thunderstorms, or high humidity and cold, dry air
• Some foods and medicines, for people allergic to them
• Physical exercise or strong emotions that lead to very fast breathing

Sources

Based on "Controlling Asthma," Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; a work of the United States government in the public domain. The source's stock photographs are not reproduced.