Aspire to know
Common asthma triggers
Triggers can cause asthma flare-ups and attacks. This grid includes some of the most common triggers among people with asthma. Click on a trigger to reveal tips for how to steer clear of it.
Roll over or tap a trigger to reveal tips for how to steer clear of it.
Cockroaches
- Don’t leave food or trash uncovered.
- Clean up spills and crumbs right away.
- Keep food out of the bedroom.
- Keep cooking grease in the refrigerator.
- Fix leaky pipes right away.
Colds
- Avoid contact with others who have colds.
- Wash your hands often.
- Don’t share drinks.
- Keep your hands away from your eyes, mouth and nose.
Dust Mites
- Use pillow and mattress encasements.
- Use pillow and mattress encasements.
- Wash stuffed animals regularly and keep them out of sleeping areas.
- Vacuum with a HEPA vacuum cleaner.
Exercise
- Talk to your doctor about what you should and shouldn’t do.
- Warm up and cool down 5-10 minutes before and after exercising or playing sports.
- Have your rescue inhaler readily available.
Mold
- Fix leaky faucets, pipes or other sources of water.
- Clean mold-covered surfaces with hot water and soap.
- Use a dehumidifier in damp or musty-smelling areas such as basements.
Pet Dander
- If possible, keep furry and feathered pets out of the home.
- Keep pets away from sleeping areas.
- Wipe pets with a damp cloth when they enter the home.
- Wash hands after petting animals.
Pollen
- Keep windows closed during pollen season.
- Do indoor activities on high-pollen days.
- Ask your doctor about allergy medication.
Pollution
- Avoid traveling during rush hour.
- Check local air quality forecasts and stay indoors when air quality is poor.
- Keep your car windows closed, especially in traffic.
Smoke
- Do not allow smoking in the home, car or around people with asthma.
- Ask your doctor for assistance to stop smoking.
Strong Emotions
- Find ways to stay calm and express yourself without yelling.
- Remember to breathe deeply and slowly when feeling stressed, upset or angry.
- Learn techniques such as mindful breathing and observation to manage stress.
Strong Smells
- Avoid strong odors and sprays, even those that are thought to smell good.
- Mix and use your own low-odor cleaning products.
- Follow product instructions and use them in a well-ventilated area.
Weather
- Avoid going outside in extreme cold or hot weather.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a scarf in cold weather.
- Keep the temperature inside your home near 71 degrees F.
Touch/Click
