Asthma Symptoms and Triggers.
An asthma attack occurs when the airways become inflamed and narrowed, making it difficult to breathe.
Common signs and symptoms of an asthma attack include:
- Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing during physical activity or at rest.
- Wheezing: A high-pitched whistling sound when breathing, especially during exhalation.
- Coughing: Persistent coughing, particularly at night or early in the morning, often triggered by cold air or physical activity.
- Chest tightness: A sensation of pressure in the chest, making it feel hard to breathe deeply.
- Increased mucus production: A thick, sticky mucus that may be difficult to clear from the airways.
- Difficulty speaking: Trouble speaking in full sentences due to breathlessness.
- Rapid breathing: Breathing faster than normal in an attempt to get enough air.
- Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak as the body struggles to get enough oxygen.
A extended list of triggers
Asthma attacks can be triggered by a variety of factors that irritate the airways or increase inflammation. The most common triggers of an asthma attack include:
- Allergens: Pollen, Dust mites, Pet dander, Mold, Cockroach droppings
- Respiratory Infections: Colds, flu, or other viral infections
- Exercise: Physical activity, especially in cold, dry air or without proper warm-up, can trigger exercise-induced asthma.
- Cold Air
- Air Pollution: smog, smoke, and vehicle exhaust can irritate the airways and trigger asthma symptoms.
- Strong Odors or Fumes: Perfumes, cleaning products, paint fumes, or other strong chemical odors
- Tobacco Smoke: smoking and second-hand smoke.
- Weather Changes: Sudden changes in weather.
- Stress and Strong Emotions.
- Medications: Certain medications, like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or beta-blockers.
- Food Allergies: Some foods or food additives (e.g., sulfites in wine or dried fruits).
- Hormonal Changes: For some people, changes in hormone levels, during pregnancy for example,can affect asthma symptoms.