Asthma Triggers
Topic Overview
An asthma trigger is a factor that can lead to sudden difficulty breathing or other symptoms of asthma (asthma attack).
Some triggers are substances a person may be allergic to (allergens). Allergens cause the body's natural defenses (immune system) to produce chemicals called immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies. These chemicals bind to allergens, causing inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to the lungs. The allergen may also cause asthma attacks. These triggers include:
- Pollen.
- Dust mites.
- Animal dander.
- Cockroach droppings.
- Mold.
Other triggers can cause asthma symptoms without affecting the body's immune system. These include:
- Cigarette smoke and air pollution.
- Viral infections, such as colds and influenza, and sinus and other upper respiratory infections.
- Exercise. Many people with asthma have symptoms when they exercise.
- Dry, cold air.
- Medicines, such as aspirin or beta-blockers.
- In adults, hormones, including those involved in pregnancy and menstrual periods (just before or during periods).
- Gastrointestinal reflux disease (GERD). GERD may make asthma worse for some people.
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Current as of: June 9, 2019
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:John Pope MD - Pediatrics & E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Mary F. McNaughton Collins MD, MPH - Internal Medicine