Asthma is a condition in which the airways become inflamed and narrow, making it difficult to breathe. Asthma attacks can be triggered by a variety of factors, including:

• Allergens: Substances that cause allergies, such as pollen, dust mites, mold, and pet dander or fur, can trigger asthma.

• Irritants in the air: Smoke, fumes, and pollution from sources such as factories, cars, and wildfires can trigger asthma.

• Respiratory infections: Infections linked to influenza (flu), colds, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can trigger an asthma attack.

• Exercise: Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) is triggered by physical activity and can impact people with or without asthma. Exercise, especially in cold air, is a frequent asthma trigger.

• Strong emotions: When you feel strong emotions, your breathing changes, which may cause wheezing or other asthma symptoms in someone with asthma.

• Weather: Sudden changes in temperature, cold air, wind, thunderstorms, heat, and humidity can trigger asthma.

• Medicines: Some medicines, particularly anti-inflammatory painkillers like ibuprofen and aspirin, can trigger asthma.

• Other factors: Acid reflux, sinus infections, and exposure to mold or damp can also trigger asthma.

Its important to identify your asthma triggers and take steps to avoid them. This may include reducing exposure to allergens and irritants, taking medication as prescribed, and following an asthma action plan developed with your healthcare provider.