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Common asthma triggers Dust mite antigen (from tiny insects present in house dust).  This is the most common allergen known, and most people with asthma react to it.  The mite lives on shed skin cells from humans, and is common in all houses.  The antigen, der p 1, is almost always positive when a person with asthma undergoes allergy testing. Indoor and outdoor molds (fungi). Animal dander - antigens derived from skin, hair or feathers of animals in the home.  These persist in the home for several weeks after the animal is removed. Pollens from flowers, grasses and trees.  These are seasonal, and can cause an increase in symptoms in season. Cockroach antigens.  This has recently been recognized as an important factor in childhood asthma. Strong odors from perfumes, paints, sprays, or other items. Smoke from cigarettes or from burning wood, paper, or other items. Air pollution.   Crying, laughing, or yelling. Contrary to popular belief, food is not an important trigger.  However, certain foods and food additives (preservatives like sulfites, for example). Cold air. Some medicines (aspirin, beta blockers, and drugs called non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs). Viral colds. Exercise.

Asthma Triggers and Avoidance

Well, it's different things for different people, of course, but some substances are known to be commonly troublesome.  An antigen is something that is capable of triggering allergy.  Some antigens cause an inflammatory reaction in the lungs, leading to bronchial hyperresponsiveness. Some antigens cause an immediate increase in symptoms or even an acute severe attack.

Avoiding asthma

Avoidance measures are of great value for children with asthma.Effective measures that reduce exposure to an offending antigen can significantly reduce airway inflammation and bronchial hyperresponsiveness.  This translates to better asthma control.

• The bedroom should be a dust free zone, since the child spends almost half of the day here.
• Cover mattresses and pillows in impermeable covers of plastic or rexine.
• Bedsheets and pillowcovers should be changed twice a week and washed in hot water (130 degrees F, at least) to kill dust mites.
• Avoid dust collectors in the bedroom -- this means heavy blankets, tapestry curtains, stuffed toys, sofas, stuffed furniture, etc.

   

• Animal hair and other allergens can be an important trigger.
• Try to get rid of all pets.  This may be difficult, if the child is very attached to it.
• Even after the pet has gone, the triggers persist in the home for several weeks.
• Bathe all pets regularly.
• Pets should never enter the child's bedroom.

   

• No smoking in the house.  Also no agarbattis (incense sticks), mosquito coils, mosquito mats, and other sources of smoke and fumes.
• Wet mop the house when the child is in the house, to avoid stirring up dust and associated allergens.
• Cleaning of cupboards, painting of the house, etc are activities that should be done with the child absent.
• The kitchen should be off limits to the child, especially when cooking is going on.  Apart from the spices and food, the cooking gas gives of suphur dioxide when burnt, which triggers asthma.
• Strong smelling substances may act as a trigger.  Avoid perfumes, sprays, balms, and highly perfumed soaps and oils.
• Houses should be well ventilated and lit.  Damp, dark houses encourage the growth of molds.

It is not always possible to avoid all allergens, but an attempt must be made.  For example, if the child is reluctant to get rid of a much loved dog, the condition can be laid down that it must never enter the bedroom.  Allergen avoidance is not a one time effort; it is a continual procees, and determination and motivation will determine success.

Some triggers may make life difficult -- exercise, for example.  The plight of a child cut off from games and sports is sad to contemplate.  It may be better to meet this head on -- plan the exercise, and take a drug like cromolyn or salmeterol beforehand.

Last revision: July 15, 2007

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