Asthma Asthma Basics

You Can Control Your Asthma Triggers

An Asthma Story
It's 6 PM and you've just returned home from a hard day at work. Nevertheless, several chores remain before you can relax. You go down to the damp basement to get the laundry from the laundry room. While sorting the clothes, you notice you have a slight wheeze. You think, "I'd better take a few puffs of my albuterol inhaler before things get out of control." After experiencing quick relief, you climb back upstairs to start dinner for your family.

After dinner, your husband lights up a cigar, causing you to start coughing and wheezing again. After a few more puffs from the inhaler, you leave the dinner table and tell your husband to put out his cigar. Then it's time to feed the dog and take him for a walk. During the walk, your asthma kicks in again and you are forced to again use your albuterol inhaler. This time the inhaler only provides partial relief. Nevertheless, by 10 PM your symptoms have returned to normal and you head for the bedroom.

You walk into the bedroom and notice that your cat is curled up on your pillow. After chasing her away, your eyes start to water and the wheezing returns. You change your sheets and pillowcases and throw them on your carpeted floor, but it's too late. You are now in the throes of a severe asthma attack. You take a few last puffs from your albuterol inhaler and call 911.

Asthma Triggers
Unfortunately, the person described in this example does not have a good understanding of her asthma and the triggers that can cause asthma attacks. Triggers from the environment include things you are allergic to (animal fur, molds), irritants (perfume, smoke) or physical changes (cold air, exercise), all of which may precipitate an asthma attack. Recognizing your triggers and taking steps to avoid them can help you control your asthma and reduce the need for medication.

Identify Your Triggers
Answer the following questions to help identify what triggers your asthma attacks:

• Is your asthma worse in certain seasons, especially when associated with nasal congestion and sneezing? (seasonal outdoor pollens and molds).
• Is your asthma worse (wheezing or itchy eyes) when you are around pets? (animal fur or dander [see below]).
• Does your asthma get better when you go away on vacation? (indoor allergens [see below]).
• Do your symptoms get worse when vacuuming or changing the bedding? (dust mites).
• Do your symptoms get worse in the bathroom or basement? (indoor mold).
• Do your symptoms worsen at work and improve when away from work? (occupational asthma).
• Do your symptoms get worse after exposure to cold air or exercise? (physical triggers).
• Do your symptoms get worse after exposure to smoke or perfume? (irritants).
• Does your asthma get worse when you develop a cold or bronchitis? (infection).

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