During an asthma attack, bronchial airways tighten causing airflow depletion characterized by wheezing, chest tightness and coughing says MedlinePlus. Airways of asthmatics are extremely sensitive due to the swelling and tenderness of the bronchial tubes. When irritants such as chemicals encounter the airways, breathing difficulties develop requiring fast-acting medication to relax the smooth muscle surrounding the bronchial tubes. Avoiding chemical triggers can help reduce asthma attacks for a high quality of life.
Air Pollution
Both indoor and outdoor air pollution can trigger an asthma attack. This is due to free-floating chemicals such as sulfur, nitrogen and carbon oxides, according to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. These toxins are not only detrimental to the environment, but can wreak havoc on asthmatic lungs by significantly increasing the occurrence of attacks. Indoor pollution due to household cleaners and poor air quality can cause irritation to the lungs. Increased exposure to outdoor air pollution, or instances of high levels of the pollution, cause asthma morbidity and mortality, reports the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. Additionally, industrial pollution that releases metal and aldehydes also contributes to asthma attacks. The American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology implicates outdoor air pollution as one of the major factors in the increase of asthma-related occurrences.
Tobacco Smoke
As one of the most widely known carcinogens and causes of cancer, tobacco smoke instantly triggers asthmatic symptoms, according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer. Upon the introduction of tobacco smoke into the lungs of an asthma sufferer, rapid or shortness of breath, tightening of the chest, wheezing and coughing arises. The Agency for Toxic Substances and Diseases Registry affirms that tobacco smoke is a leading risk for asthmatic children. It is instrumental in the development of sinusitis, ear infection and bronchiolitis. Avoiding areas high in tobacco smoke proves extremely effective in reducing chemically-induced asthma attacks while also reducing associated inflammation.
Combustive Chemicals
Chemicals utilized in combustion devices such as gas stoves, poorly ventilated fireplaces, improperly functioning furnaces, wood or coal burning devices and kerosene or gas heaters can cause asthma attacks and symptoms, the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry says. Very much alike to air pollution, these chemicals include sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide, which are extremely irritating to asthmatics. They induce bronchial constriction and inflammation causing breathing difficulties. If these devices are present in the household, ensure areas have proper ventilation by keeping windows open and devices up to code.
