Asthma is a long-term lung disease in which inflammation of the lungs causes the narrowing of airways, according to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. People afflicted with this condition have airways that are extremely sensitive to even the smallest irritant. More than 22 million people in the United States have asthma, with 6 million of them being children. Understanding asthma stress triggers can help prevent asthma attacks. Should anyone suspect asthma as a problem, contact a doctor.
Dust Mites
Dust mites are tiny creatures that exist within the home and can cause severe irritation for asthma sufferers. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America reports that 20 million people in the United States have dust mite allergy. These organisms are undetectable to the human eye. Household dust contains tiny fibers shed from fabrics, feathers, pet dander, bacteria, food, plants, mold and fungus spores. It also contains microscopic mites and their waste products. These dust mites contain a protein, which acts as an allergen that triggers asthma. Because these mites live everywhere, you can't get rid of them completely. Using a controller medication helps to reduce inflammation associated with asthma to reduce attacks and improve the quality of life.
Air Pollution
Air pollution includes many chemical compounds that enter the airways of asthmatics, causing irritation, swelling and constriction of the bronchial tubes. According to the agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, high levels of air pollution cause an increase in asthma mortality. Outdoor and industrial pollutants such as carbon emissions and sulfides trigger asthma symptoms, causing difficulty breathing, chest tightness and coughing. Avoiding pollution-dense areas such as high-traffic freeways or cities can help deter asthma attacks.
Exercise
Exercise-induced asthma occurs when wheezing, coughing or feeling out breath occurs during or after exercising, according to the Mayo Clinic. Like all asthma, during this attack the airways tighten and secrete an excess of mucus. Usually, symptoms appear 10 to 15 minutes after completion of a workout, although the symptoms can appear during exercise. Having exercise-induce asthma does not mean exercising is no longer an option. Instead, speaking to a physician for the proper treatment can help reduce the symptoms of asthma during exercise.
References
- National Heart Lung and Blood Institute: What Is Asthma
- The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America: Dust Mites
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry: Case Studies in Environmental Medicine (CSEM) Environmental Triggers of Asthma Environmental Factors
- MayoClinic.com: Exercise-Induced Asthma
