What Triggers Asthma? Know Common Allergens, Prevention And Treatment

While common triggers such as pollen, dust mites, and air pollution are well-known, there are some lesser-known triggers that can also lead to asthma symptoms.

Asthma Attack: Know Common Allergens, Prevention And Treatment

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Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can happen when we are exposed to allergens or triggers which are different for each asthma individuals. While common triggers such as pollen, dust mites, and air pollution are well-known, there are some lesser-known triggers that can also lead to asthma symptoms. Being aware of these uncommon triggers can help individuals with asthma better manage their condition.

Allergens That Can Trigger Asthma:

Yearly, around 450000 people succumb to this manageable disease across the world. Knowing about common triggers as mentioned by Dr. Gopi Krishna Yedlapati, Sr. Consultant Interventional Pulmonologist & Clinical Director, at Yashoda hospitals Hyderabad can be helpful for patients:

• Tobbaco Smoke: Long term smoke abuse can cause in decline of lung function and can lead to frequent asthma attacks. Tobbaco cessation clinics are available to help people quit from this dangerous habit.
• Air Pollution: Outdoor or indoor air pollution is one of the common factors which is affecting millions of people residing in urban sector. Usage of mask will definitely help people suffering from asthma and allergies.
• Pets: Furry animals and birds can trigger asthmatic attack if they shed hairs and feathers. So, decreasing the exposure to these pets and avoiding them in living spaces or bedrooms will help.
• Mold: Damp areas in bathrooms or bedrooms help in growth of mold which is one of the common and dangerous trigger for asthma. As long as the mold exposure is there, asthma will not come under control. Cleaning and disinfecting can help people breathe better.

In addition, Dr. Sachin D, Consultant - Interventional Pulmonology Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, Fortis Hospital, Cunningham, Bengaluru also listed the following:

• Perfumes and fragrances can trigger asthma symptoms for some individuals. Strong scents from perfumes, fragranced lotions, and air fresheners release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that irritate the airways, leading to coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
• Exercise-induced asthma affects some people with asthma. Vigorous exercise or activities in cold or dry air can trigger asthma symptoms. Using an inhaler before physical activity can help prevent symptoms.
• Emotional stress can trigger asthma symptoms. Strong emotions and stress can lead to hyperventilation, causing rapid breathing and shallow inhalation, which can trigger asthma symptoms in some individuals.
• Certain food preservatives and additives can trigger asthma symptoms in some people. For example, sulfites, commonly used as preservatives in processed foods and alcoholic beverages, can cause wheezing and shortness of breath. Reading food labels and avoiding sulfite-containing products can help manage symptoms.
• Exposure to certain substances in the workplace can trigger asthma symptoms, leading to a condition known as occupational asthma. Chemicals, dust, fumes, and other workplace triggers can be a risk in industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare.
• Individuals with acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may find that their asthma symptoms worsen. Acid reflux can irritate the airways and trigger coughing and wheezing. Managing GERD symptoms through diet and lifestyle changes can help alleviate asthma symptoms.

Treatment And Prevention Of Asthma:

Acute asthma attacks, or asthma exacerbations, happen when asthma symptoms rapidly worsen, often leading to difficulty breathing, coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness. These episodes require swift action to prevent complications or, in severe cases, life-threatening outcomes.

During an acute asthma attack, the airways become inflamed and constricted. This reduces airflow and causes respiratory distress. Recognizing early signs of an attack, such as increased use of rescue inhalers or waking up at night due to asthma symptoms, is crucial. Once symptoms are identified, it's essential to act quickly.

First-line of treatment for acute asthma attack suggested by Dr. Hitesh Billa - Pulmonology/ Respiratory Medicine, Apollo Clinic Manikonda involves: 

• Using a quick-relief bronchodilator, like salbutamol, to open the airways 
• If symptoms don't improve or worsen, medical intervention may be necessary 
• Corticosteroids, either inhaled or oral, can help reduce inflammation 
• In severe cases, emergency services should be contacted, as oxygen therapy or other interventions might be required.

Mentioning how to prevent acute asthma attacks, he further said the following:

• Managing triggers 
• Following a personalised asthma action plan 
• Taking prescribed medications as directed. 
• Regular check-ins with healthcare providers help ensure asthma is controlled, reducing the risk of acute attacks 
• By staying vigilant and adhering to a well-structured management plan, you can reduce the severity and frequency of asthma exacerbations.

Here's What You Can Do If You Have An Asthma Attack, But Forgot Your Inhaler: