An asthma attack is when asthma symptoms suddenly get worse, caused by tightening of the muscles around the airways. The lining of the airways becomes swollen or inflamed, and a thick mucus is produced.
What causes an asthma attack depends on the individual.
An asthma attack may be caused by:
- Certain perfumes
- Having a cold
- Pollen
- Pollution
- Smoke exposure
- Stress
- Weather changes
- And lots of other things
Some people have them with exercise – this is called exercise-induced asthma.
To help prevent an asthma attack, it is important to identify your triggers and learn how you can avoid them.
| Asthma Triggers |
How To Avoid |
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- Children with asthma can and should exercise if they are on the right medicine to keep their asthma controlled
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- Colds
- Flu
- Cold Air
- Change in Weather
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- Wash your hands often
- Get a flu shot every Fall
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- Mice & Rats
- Roaches
- Water Bugs
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- Keep food in airtight containers
- Notify landlord or call an exterminator if you have rodents
- Use traps
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- Keep pets out of the bedroom
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- Weeds
- Grasses
- Trees
- Pollen
- Mold
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- During pollen season, keep the windows closed and use air conditioners
- Shower before bed if you have been outdoors
- Repair water damaged areas in your home
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- Smoke
- Air Pollution
- Dust & Dust Mites
- Strong Smells
- Perfumes & Body Sprays
- Cleaning Products
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- DON'T SMOKE
- Stay away from all kinds of smoke, including second hand smoke
- Cover pillows and mattresses with allergy covers
- Wash linens in hot water
- Keep stuffed animals off the bed
- Stay away from strong smells
- Avoid exposure to cleaning fumes, perfumes and hairspray
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