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Asthma Triggers

British Columbia Specific Information

Asthma is a common chronic condition that causes your airway to narrow and swell. You may experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, tightness in the chest, coughing, and wheezing. Symptoms may range from being mildly annoying to deadly. For this reason it is important to speak with a health care provider if you think you may have asthma.

For more information about asthma, visit our Asthma Health Feature. You may also call 8-1-1 to speak with a registered nurse 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.​

Overview

When you have asthma, certain things can make your symptoms worse. These things are called triggers.

Things that you're allergic to can trigger your asthma. They may include:

  • Dust.
  • Dust mites. These are tiny, nearly invisible creatures. They live in bedding, carpet, and furniture.
  • Cockroach droppings.
  • Pet dander. Dander is loose skin cells (like dandruff) from dogs and cats.
  • Indoor mould.
  • Pollen.

Your asthma can be triggered by other things too, such as:

  • Colds, influenza (flu), and sinus infections.
  • Cigarette smoke, air pollution, and fumes from gas, oil, or kerosene heaters.
  • Exercise. Many people have symptoms when they exercise.
  • Dry, cold air.
  • Medicines, such as aspirin or beta-blockers.
  • Hormones, including those involved in pregnancy and menstrual periods. A woman's symptoms may change just before or during her period.

Credits

Current as of: November 14, 2022

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
John Pope MD - Pediatrics
E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Mary F. McNaughton Collins MD, MPH - Internal Medicine