What are triggers?

Kids with asthma are especially sensitive to things in the air and the environment that can easily irritate their lungs. These things are called triggers.

Some common asthma triggers, which include both irritants and allergens, are

• Grass, tree, and weed pollens
• Airborne molds
• Dust mites
• Animals
• Strong odors/perfumes
• Cigarette smoke
• Wood/fireplace smoke
• Cold air
• Smog/poor air quality
• Humidity fluctuations
• Colds or viral infections
• Exercise
• Prolonged laughing or crying
• Reflux disease/heartburn
• Medications
• Fatigue
• Cockroaches

Other less common triggers include

• Foods or food additives (like preservatives used on salad bars)
• Adverse weather conditions (freezing temperatures, high humidity, thunderstorms)
• Pesky indoor visitors like cockroaches and rodents
• Bus and automobile exhaust fumes
• Cooking fumes
• Aerosol sprays

Identifying your child’s triggers

Different kids have different triggers. Getting to know them and avoiding or getting rid of them—especially around the house—will help prevent asthma symptoms that can lead to attacks. This is an important step that can help to control your child’s asthma.

Try using the Asthma Symptom Tracker to assist you in identifying and avoiding your child’s triggers.

But, identifying and avoiding triggers is not enough. You also need to work with your child’s doctor to determine which asthma treatment is the right fit for your child.

Next | Learn More About Talking to Your Child's Health Care Team >>