Asthma Triggers
Information about asthma triggers and how to manage them.
People with asthma have “triggers,” things that cause asthma symptoms or make them worse. Triggers are different for each person. Knowing what your individual triggers are and controlling exposure to them can help keep your asthma under control.
Common Asthma Triggers
Allergens
- Dust Mites
- Animals: dog, cat, rabbit, birds, rats, horses
- Pollen from trees, grass, weeds
- Molds
- Cockroaches and their droppings
- Rodents and their droppings
- Food: Peanuts, eggs, strawberries etc.
Weather
- Changes in weather
- Cold, dry air
- Hot, humid air
- Wet weather
- Wind
- Chemical Irritants
Perfume
- Hairspray
- Paint fumes
- Cleaning products
Illness
- Colds
- Influenza (flu)
- Sinus infection
- Other respiratory illnesses
Strong Emotions
- Anger
- Anxiety
- Fear
- Excitement
- Sadness
- Laughter
Smoke-related Irritants
- Cigarette smoke
- Cigar smoke
- Pipe smoke
- Wild fires
- Wood burning
- Car exhaust
- Air pollution
For information on how to manage asthma triggers, please see the American Lung Association.
To identify triggers in your home please see the EPA Home Characteristics and Asthma Triggers Checklist for Home Visitors.
Air Quality
Asthma symptoms can occur or worsen when air pollution levels are high. Both ozone and particle pollution can have negative health impacts. On days with poor air quality, people with asthma should:
- Limit outdoor activities
- Make sure to have quick-relief medicine available
- Follow their asthma action plan
- Talk to a healthcare provider if symptoms are concerning
- Pay attention to alerts and advisories and follow emergency guidance
You can check the air quality in NH at Tracking Air Quality in NH or nationally at AirNow.gov.
Weatherization
Home weatherization, when done properly, may reduce exposure to asthma triggers in the home while also lowering home energy costs. Weatherization includes home improvements such as insulation, air sealing, and window repair. Home weatherization can address asthma triggers such as extreme temperatures, mold and pests. There are programs in New Hampshire that provide loans or grants to low-income residents to improve their homes. Learn more from the NH's Weatherization Assistance Program.