Causes

The airways in a person with asthma are very sensitive and react to many "triggers." People react differently to the various triggers, and an individual's reaction can vary from episode to episode. One of the most important steps in asthma control is avoiding triggers.

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Common asthma triggers include the following:

• Infections (colds, viruses, flu, sinus infections)
• Exercise (very common in children)
• Weather (cold air, changes in temperature, and humidity)
• Tobacco smoke and air pollution
• Allergens (dust mites, pollens, pets, mold spores, cockroaches, and, rarely, foods)
• Fumes from chemical products
• Stress and strong emotions
• Exposure to substances in the workplace (leading to occupational asthma)