• Allergens, air pollution, exercise-induced asthma, and emotional triggers can cause asthma attacks.
• Reduce exposure to allergens by regularly dusting and vacuuming, checking the local air quality index before outdoor activities, warming up, and using short bursts of exertion when exercising.
• Manage stress and emotions with relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga.
• Stay vigilant to respiratory infections and avoid contact with people who are sick.
• Clean clothes regularly, allergen-proof your home, do not smoke indoors, and manage stress and emotions.
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can be a life-altering disease, making even the most routine tasks almost impossible. It’s estimated that about 25 million Americans are struggling with this disease. If you’re struggling with asthma, you’re not alone, and learning about the factors that trigger your asthma attacks can help you manage your symptoms more effectively.
Asthma and Your Life
You know that you have asthma when you have difficulty breathing, wheezing, tightness in your chest, and a chronic cough. Asthma attacks often happen when something in the environment triggers your airways to become inflamed and narrow, making it difficult to get enough oxygen. Here are some of the common reasons for your asthma attacks.
Allergens
One of the most common triggers of asthma attacks is allergens. These substances, usually airborne, can irritate your respiratory system and cause your airways to constrict, making it difficult to breathe. Common allergens include pollen, mold, dust mites, and pet dander. Reducing exposure to allergens by regularly dusting, vacuuming, and using air purifiers can significantly help minimize the frequency and severity of your asthma attacks.
Air Pollution
Poor air quality caused by smoke, smog, or chemicals can directly trigger asthma attacks. Inhaling polluted air can irritate and inflame your airways, causing them to narrow and produce excess mucus. Avoiding areas with heavy traffic and staying indoors when air quality is at its worst can help you avoid this trigger. You can also check your local air quality index to help plan your outdoor activities accordingly.
Exercise-Induced Asthma
Physical activity is essential for everyone, including those with asthma. However, some asthma sufferers experience exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB), a temporary narrowing of the airways that can make breathing difficult during or after exercise. To manage EIB, we recommend warming up before exercising and incorporating activities that require short bursts of exertion rather than long, sustained periods of heavy breathing. Maintaining communication with your doctor regarding your exercise plan and asthma management is also essential.
Emotional Factors
Stress and strong emotions can play a significant role in triggering asthma attacks. When you’re upset or anxious, your body releases stress hormones that can cause rapid, shallow breathing and constrict your airways. Learning to manage stress and emotions effectively is an essential part of keeping your asthma under control. This might include practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga.
Respiratory Infections
Colds, the flu, and other respiratory infections can exacerbate asthma symptoms. These infections can cause inflammation and narrow your airways, making it more difficult for air to pass through. It’s important to stay vigilant and take preventive measures such as getting vaccinated, washing your hands frequently, and avoiding contact with people who are sick to help reduce your chances of getting sick and potentially triggering an asthma attack.
Prevention
Prevention will always be better than cure when it comes to asthma. Here are ways to prevent asthma attacks in your life.
Clean Clothes
All allergens can stick to your clothing and contact your skin. Ensure you clean them regularly, especially those exposed to the outside environment. If you need professional help, make sure to hire the services of your local dry cleaners. They can ensure that your clothes are cleaned correctly and that allergens are not stuck.
Allergen-Proof Your Home
If you have asthma, keeping the air at home as clean as possible is essential. This means removing upholstered furniture, vacuuming regularly, and using a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter in your home. If you have pets, make sure to keep them outside as much as possible and avoid having carpets in your home.
Avoid Tobacco Smoke
Second-hand tobacco smoke can significantly trigger asthma attacks, so avoiding it at all costs is essential. Do not smoke indoors, and make sure to keep your home tobacco-free.
Manage Stress & Emotions
Make sure to take time out of your day to relax, take deep breaths, meditate, or practice yoga. This can help you manage stress and emotional triggers that can cause asthma attacks.
If you have asthma, paying attention to your triggers, taking preventive measures, and working with your doctor to develop an asthma management plan are essential. By understanding the causes of your asthma attacks and taking steps to prevent them, you can help keep yourself safe and healthy.
