What Triggers Asthma Attacks?

Asthma attacks can be caused by something that bothers the lungs. These are called asthma triggers. There are many kinds of asthma triggers. Two major categories of asthma triggers are allergens and irritants.

If you, or a loved one has asthma, it's important to learn which triggers are a problem. Ask your doctor to help. Your doctor may suggest keeping an asthma diary or recommend skin testing for allergies.

Once asthma triggers are known, actions can be taken to prevent asthma attacks. Cutting down exposure to your triggers may help in avoiding asthma attacks. When attacks occur, they will probably be less severe.