Triggers

Know yourself: Anyone with asthma has it every day, but no two people have it the same way.

The things that causeyou to feel symptoms are usually referred to as "triggers." Triggers vary from person to person. You may have some or all on this list of common triggers. And, you may have some that are unique to you. Learn to recognise what things trigger your symptoms - and keep track. Triggers might be:

• dogs, cats, other animals
• house dust or mites,
• infections, colds, or flu
• odours from sprays, perfume, paint
• pollen from trees, grass, weeds, etc.
• stressful situations
• cigarette smoke/other burning items
• very cold weather/weather changes
• pollution
• physical activity
• crying, yelling loudly, laughing
• aspirin or other medication
• certain foods or food additives
• exercise/specific type

Night-time symptoms, often referred to as nocturnal asthma, are also fairly common. These symptoms during the night or in the early morning hours often disturb your sleep. They can occur every night or infrequently.

You and your doctor or other health care professional should develop a plan for avoiding your asthma triggers.