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Learning About Asthma Triggers

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When you have asthma, certain things can make your symptoms worse. These are called triggers. Common triggers include smoke, air pollution, getting sick, and things you are allergic to.

Learning what triggers your asthma is one way to help manage it. Then you may be able to avoid the things that trigger your symptoms. Share these triggers with your doctor. The doctor may have other ideas that can help.

Here are some ways to avoid a few common triggers.

Wash your hands often. This can help you avoid getting sick.

Don't smoke or let anyone smoke around you. If you need help quitting or cutting back, talk to your doctor.

Try to stay inside when air pollution and pollen levels are high. Close the windows and use an air conditioner or air filter, if you can.

Avoid indoor triggers. Open the windows when the air inside is smoky or if it's smelly from cleaning products.

Get the recommended vaccines. These include an annual flu shot and staying up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Ask your doctor about pneumonia vaccines.

Talk with your doctor. Asthma management is a partnership. Your doctor can help.

Where can you learn more?

Go to http://www.healthwise.net/patientEd

Enter S900 in the search box to learn more about "Learning About Asthma Triggers".

Current as of: August 6, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: August 6, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.