What can trigger an asthma attack?

Asthma is a common problem in Kenya and can be a challenge to bring under control – especially in children. It is, therefore, important to find out what could be triggering your asthmatic attacks and find out how to prevent attacks.

Air pollution

This is a particular concern for those living in urban areas where pollution levels are high. The pollution is mainly from cars and factories. In the rural areas, a common pollutant is smoke from wood and charcoal fuel (the most common energy form used for cooking).

Cigarettes

Tobacco smoke is a common trigger for asthma. This includes inhaling ‘second hand smoke’. This occurs when someone around you smokes. You should, therefore, not let anyone smoke in your house, car or work environment.

Fragrances

Most people recognise that perfumes and colognes can trigger an asthmatic attack. They, however, fail to realise that other fragrance sources like air freshners, in some cases, scented body lotion, perfumed soap and even fabric softener can be a source of irritation.

Household cleaners

Household cleaners, polishes and paints can contain chemicals which can trigger asthmatic attacks. This is due to the presence of volatile organic compounds. Certain glues also have them. In such cases, opt for other non-irritating products and always work in well-ventilated places.

Pets

Furry animals are the main culprits. Birds can also pose a problem. This is particularly challenging if the pet stays indoors. The trigger is usually dander (shed animal skin) and animal secretions like saliva and urine.

Cat allergen, in particular, can remain on furniture for many months. Ideally, if pets are aggravating your asthma, keep them outdoors. In addition, regularly clean your pet.

House dust mites

These are tiny insects found in mattresses, carpets, sofas and even stuffed toys. These are a particular problem and may cause asthma attacks at night, when one goes to bed.

It is, therefore, crucial that you regularly wash your beddings (preferably in hot water), sun dry the mattress and regularly change pillows. Special mattress covers are available for this purpose as well. Carpets should be regularly washed and, in some cases, removed from the room altogether for airing.

Medication

Medication used to deal with pain and fever are common triggers for attacks. A common group of drugs that may trigger attacks are known as NSAIDs (non-steroidal inflammatory drugs) such as aspirin.

Certain herbal drugs have also been known to trigger attacks (a common challenge with herbal medication is that most side-effects are not indicated when being prescribed). In addition, some anti-hypertensives (medication for treating high blood pressure) may also pose a challenge for ashmatics.

Cockroaches

Cockroach droppings and their body parts can trigger asthmatic attacks. You, therefore, must rid your house of cockroaches by putting away food (preferably in the fridge) once you have finished eating. Roaches tend to thrive on crumbs and other small food droppings.

It is, therefore, not ideal to leave unwashed dishes on the kitchen counter overnight. In addition to regular cleaning of the home, one needs to use anti-roach gels to target their breeding areas.

Mould

Mould (fungi) grows in moist areas. A common area for mold growth is, therefore, the kitchen and bathroom. Mold usually sends off little microscopic particles known as spores which can trigger an asthmatic attack if they get into the lungs.

It is, therefore, crucial that you fix all household leaks and dry bathrooms (including wet walls) after use. In addition, avoid drying clothes in the house or storing damp clothes in the wardrobe as these encourage mold.

Infections

The most common culprits are viral infections. These include the common cold, flu and sinusitis. The most effective way of preventing the spread of infections is simply handwashing. In addition, one can get the flu vaccine annually.

Foods and food preservatives

Although asthmatics do not need a special diet, there is a link between food allergies and asthma. In addition, certain food preservatives such as sulfites, MSG and food dyes can also be a cause of problems in asthmatic. It is, therefore, important to read food and spice labels before buying.

Pollen and farm waste

These are particles released by flowering plants, grass, wheat, weeds etc. They can be a particular problem for those living in the rural areas. Wood shavings used by poultry farmers to keep their pens dry can also irritate the airways and trigger attacks.

Emotions

Strong emotions of anger, fear, excitement and even, stress cause one to hyperventillate (breathe faster and harder than usual) and can be associated with an attack. It is, therefore, crucial to learn how to handle stress and how to relax.

Exercise

Some people get bouts of cough and wheezing during exercise. This greatly undermines their exercise programme or school activities in children.

In such cases, talk to your doctor about using pre-exercise medication to help prevent attacks. In addition, ensure the exercise environment is free of other triggers. For example, jogging by the roadside can trigger an attack due to emissions from cars.

Weather changes

Changes in weather especially cold, windy and dry episodes can trigger an attack. However, please note, cold weather is not the cause of asthma – it only triggers it (otherwise, everyone would be asthmatic). High humidity can also challenge one’s lungs.

Acid reflux

This is a condition where one experiences recurrent heartburn and some of the acid from the stomach moves in reverse back into the throat (especially when lying down/sleeping). This condition usually needs medical treatment.

Hormones

This is more common in women who may notice an increase in attacks around the time of their menses. Others notice changes during pregnancy.

As we get into the holiday season, make sure that you remove or minimise anything that may bring on an attack for you or your children – especially if you are travelling for the holidays.

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