What causes asthma attacks?
Figuring out asthma attacks can take a long time. It’s a good idea to work with an experienced allergist to narrow down your triggers and find ways to manage them. Allergies are usually tested by injecting a tiny amount of a potential allergen and seeing if there is a reaction. While asthma can be a hereditary condition, it is usually also influenced by environmental factors. Many cases of asthma are actually allergic asthma, which means the asthma attacks are triggered by an allergic reactions to something in the environment.
Some of the most common causes of allergic asthma attacks include the following:
Dust Mites: To reduce the number of dust mites in your home, rip out carpet and put in hardwood floors, linoleum or tiles. Change bedding frequently and vacuum the mattress often. Wash bedding in hot, soapy water every week. Dust often, using a cloth that will trap dust, not spread it. Use a HEPA filter in your vacuum cleaner and in air conditioners.
Pet Dander: Keep pets out of your bedroom and limit them to rooms that have hardwood floors, tile or linoleum. Shampoo pets often. Ask an allergist about treatments that may reduce pet allergies.
Pollen: Keep your windows closed during high pollen seasons and install an air purifier or HEPA filter in your heating and air conditioner system. Limit outdoor activities when the pollen count is high.
Mold and Mildew: Kill mold and mildew with bleach solutions. Use a dehumidifier in areas where mold and mildew grow. Consider repainting walls with a paint that prevents mildew from growing.
Chemicals: Open windows when using chemicals that trigger asthma attacks. Find out which specific chemicals cause a reaction, and look for products that replace these chemicals with natural alternatives.