There are a number of factors that may make your asthma worse. We call these “asthma triggers” because they may trigger an asthma attack. Many people who have asthma also have allergies. In most cases, allergies trigger asthma symptoms or an asthma attack. This “allergic asthma” is the most common form of asthma. When you are exposed to bothersome allergens, you may experience asthma or allergy symptoms, including coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, runny nose, and/or watery eyes. It’s important to identify your triggers so you can avoid them or take measures to control them.

Do you have symptoms during the entire year?

You could be sensitive to animal allergens, dust mites, or indoor molds.

Do your symptoms get worse after vacuuming, making the bed, or being in a dusty place?

You could be sensitive to dust mites. Find out how to control dust mites in your home.

Do your symptoms get worse at certain times of the year?

If your symptoms occur in early spring, you could be allergic to pollen from trees; late spring suggests pollen from grasses; late summer might be weed pollen. Spring, summer, and fall could mean outdoor molds. Learn how to control your environment.

Are you around smoke and/or smog?

Find out how tobacco and pollution affect your asthma and allergies.

Do you cough or wheeze during the week, but not on weekends when away from work? Do your eyes and nasal passages get irritated soon after arriving at work?

You could be exposed to allergens at work.

There are other factors that can cause your asthma and/or allergy symptoms to worsen. Variable factors like exercise and pregnancy can trigger an attack, as well as sicknesses like viral infections and sinusitis.

Don’t wait any longer to get a medical diagnosis and an effective treatment plan. If you think you or a family member may have asthma, schedule an appointment right away.