Identifying attack triggers.

Asthma is caused by hyper-sensitive lungs that react to certain factors, or triggers. These vary widely among individuals afflicted with the condition. An important step in getting control of asthma is to identify and avoid the triggers that can cause attacks. According to the national pharmaceutical firm, Glaxo Inc., these include:

Allergies. The lungs go into an episode or attack when the patient is in contact with things he or she is allergic to. Not everyone who has asthma is allergic, but a regular pattern or timing of symptoms often points to allergy as one cause. Seventy-five to 85% of asthma patients have positive reactions to common inhaled allergens, suggesting that allergy should be considered in diagnosis and treatment. Other allergic triggers include tiny particles, such as pollens and mold spores from trees, plants, and hay; animal dander, skin, hair, and feathers, including wool clothing and feather pillows; insects such as dust mites and cockroaches; foods such as nuts, chocolate, eggs, orange juice, fish, or milk; and chemical preservatives in foods and beverages.

Weather/air pollution. Asthma symptoms tend to flare up with an assortment of weather conditions, including rapid changes in temperature and barometric pressure. High humidity favors mold growth; windy days increase airborne pollen; and, in winter, cold air can cause bronchial muscles to constrict, making breathing difficult. Certain weather patterns such as inversions and air stagnation can cause a build-up of industrial air pollution. Common weather/air pollution triggers include pollens and molds, affected by weather patterns; summer heat; cold dry winter air; industrial smokestacks, automobiles, and trucks; cigarette smoke; dirt, gases, vapors, and smoke; and traffic jams, parking garages, dusty work areas, and smoke-filled rooms.

Exercise/exertion. Symptoms occur because of a loss of heat or...