My doctor tells me that my asthma gets worse when I am exposed to triggers. What does this mean?

Asthma triggers are things that irritate the lungs and make asthma worse. It is harder to control your asthma when you are frequently exposed to triggers. Sometimes you cannot avoid the triggers and may be exposed to them every day. There are several groups of asthma triggers. It is important to know your own asthma triggers, so you can avoid contact with them as much as possible.

The inflammatory (allergic) group of triggers cause swelling in the airways. Animal dander, dust mites, moulds, pollen, and colds are examples of this type of trigger. You should try to avoid this kind of trigger. If you do not know what your inflammatory triggers are, your doctor may suggest allergy testing. When you are not able to avoid this type of trigger you may need to use a preventer medication which is used regularly to help heal and prevent swelling in the airways. These medications are often taken even when there are no symptoms, and help keep your asthma under control.

Irritants are another group of triggers. This kind of trigger causes the muscles in the airway s to contract. There are many triggers of this type including perfume, bleach, cold air, chemicals, tobacco smoke and fog. You should try to avoid this kind of trigger. If you cannot avoid these triggers you may need to use a reliever medication. Reliever medications relax the muscles when you are exposed to this type of irritant. Some irritants may also cause swelling and you may need to use your preventer medication as well.

Another group of triggers are neither inflammatory or irritants. These triggers cause the muscles in the airways to contract. Strong emotions and exercise are examples of this kind of trigger. Reliever medications are used for this type of trigger.

For more information about asthma triggers, contact Health Link Alberta where nurses are available 24-7 to provide health advice and information. Call toll-free 1-866-408-LINK (5465).