Asthma is a disease of the lungs. It may cause wheezing, difficulty breathing, constriction in the chest and coughing, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). When the lungs become irritated by something in the environment, an asthma attack may occur. During an attack, the airways in the lungs get smaller and air may not be able to pass through. Mucus may develop that also blocks the lungs. Asthma attacks are triggered by a wide variety of factors: some may be environmental, some may be genetic and some may arise due to emotional stress. The overall cause of asthma is unknown, and a cure is not yet available.
Mold
Mold is often a trigger to an asthma attack, notes the Environmental Protection Agency. Mold may grow in areas in the home that retain moisture, such as the basement and bathrooms. If proper cleaning methods are not used to clean these areas, mold may build up and taint the air in the home.
Nitrogen Oxide
The gas nitrogen oxide is released by gas stoves, furnaces and wood-burning stoves. It may trigger an asthma attack when it irritates the throat and respiratory system. Asthma attacks can be reduced if the home is kept well-ventilated and if fresh air is circulated throughout the home.
Physical Exertion
Exercise may be an asthma trigger. Physical exertion outside in possibly unhealthy air may lead to an unexpected asthma attack. Episodes may occur more frequently in areas with high levels of air pollution.
Humidity
Excessive humidity in the air inside a home or outside--in damp areas where humidity builds--may prompt an asthma attack.
Stress
Extreme emotional states--such as if a patient is hyperventilating due to stress--may bring on an asthma attack. Asthma patients learn over time what people or experiences may be detrimental to a calm state and may increase their risk of an asthma attack.
Secondhand Smoke
Secondhand smoke may be a severe asthma trigger. If one or more smokers live in a home, the secondhand smoke in the air may cause throat irritation and gagging, leading to an asthma attack.
Pests
Cockroaches, rats, mice, dust mites and other vermin may leave waste, hair and urine in a home that may contaminate the air. Inhaling the toxic air or the waste itself if airborne may cause an asthma attack. A clean home will limit the appearance of cockroaches and other vermin and prevent asthma attacks. Dust mites may be avoided by using mattress and pillow covers and avoiding use of down-filled bedding, the CDC reports.
