Triggers

People with asthma have airways that are inflamed and more sensitive than normal.

Anything that causes a reaction can set off your asthma symptoms.

These triggers differ between individuals. Over time, you will get to know which circumstances can make your asthma get worse. Some can be avoided altogether while others you will need to plan for. 

Common triggers include:

  • respiratory infections (such as the common cold)
  • cold weather or weather changes
  • cigarette smoke
  • house dust mites, pollens or moulds
  • animal fur
  • work-related triggers (e.g. word dust, chemicals, metal salts)
  • irritating substances breathed in the air, such as cigarette smoke
  • some food additives
  • certain medicines (e.g. aspirin, some blood pressure drugs)
  • exercise

For detailed information about these triggers as well as ways in which people with asthma can maintain an active, healthy lifestyle, please see our Healthy Living Fact Sheets.