Asthma is a chronic disease of the airways of the lungs. The symptoms of asthma are caused by narrowing or constriction of the airways and inflammation.. Both cause wheezing, coughing, chest tightness or shortness of breath. What triggers asthma symptoms varies among individuals. There are environmental causes that commonly irritate the airways of people with asthma.
Allergens in the Home
Dust mites are tiny insects that are not visible by the naked eye. They are found in every home in mattresses, pillows, stuffed toys, carpets and fabric-covered items. The feces and body parts of dust mites trigger asthma symptoms in people with allergic reactions to dust mites and can initiate asthma symptoms in children.
The dead skin flakes, hair, urine and feces of household pets, such as cats, dogs, hamsters and guinea pigs, can trigger asthma. The protein in a warm-blooded animal's dander, urine and saliva causes an asthma episode. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, "Pet allergen levels are reported to stay in the home for several months after the pet is removed even with cleaning."
Secondhand smoke is the smoke exhaled from smokers or emitted from the burning end of a cigarette. It can cause and worsen an asthma episode. Secondhand smoke is a risk factor for the development of asthma in preschool-aged children.
Mold is a fungus that grows in damp areas. Inhaling mold spores can trigger an asthma attack in a person who is sensitive to mold.
Cockroach droppings and body parts contain a protein that can cause an asthma episode in some individuals with asthma.
Irritants in the Air
Smoke from wood fires and charcoal-burning grills can aggravate the sensitive airways of a person with asthma. According to the National Resources Defense Council, "In recent years, scientists have shown that air pollution from cars, factories and power plants is a major cause of asthma attacks." Ozone found at ground level as the result of automobile emissions triggers asthma. Sulfur dioxide is a pollutant emitted from coal-fired power plants and causes asthma symptoms. Asthma episodes can be caused by the strong fumes from household sprays, paint, gasoline and even perfumes and scented soaps.
Changes in Weather
Increased pollen in the air and sudden changes in temperature and humidity can cause asthma symptoms. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, "...bad weather, such as thunderstorms, high humidity or freezing temperatures...can trigger an asthma attack."
