World Asthma Day, observed every year on May 2 is aimed at raising awareness and improving asthma care around the world. An estimated 262 million (26.2 crore) people were affected by asthma in 2019 alone, of which 4.55 died of it, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) . This year, the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) has chosen ‘Asthma care for all’ as the theme for World Asthma Day. 

While health organisations work towards global awareness, we, as individuals, must also take measures to improve quality of life in asthma patients. The OnlyMyHealth editorial team spoke with two leading doctors to understand some of the triggers for asthma attacks. 

Also Read: World Asthma Day 2023: Pulmonologist Explains Impact Of Air Pollution On Asthma

What Are Asthma Attacks?

Asthma is a lung disease, wherein the airways get inflamed and swollen, constricting the air to pass smoothly and leading to breathing difficulties. During an asthma attack, a person may experience coughing, wheezing, and may have trouble breathing. It requires immediate medical care or proper home treatment. To be prepared for such attacks, it is important to know about the triggers. 

Early Signs Of Asthma

Dr Ravi Shekhar Jha, Director and Unit Head, Pulmonology, Fortis Escorts Hospital, Faridabad, says it is important to recognise the early signs of asthma. Since most asthmatics have a history of allergies, patients usually experience symptoms that include:

• Chest tightness
• Breathlessness
• Wheezing
• Cough that is worse at night or early morning

Other allergy-like symptoms , such as a runny nose, sneezing, and skin rashes, may also be present, says the doctor. 

He adds, “We have noticed a very peculiar trend in asthma. The diagnosis and complications in the younger generation are increasing. Many school-going kids have bad asthma control that is leading to frequent attacks. Many kids are scared to take inhalers which again is leading to attacks. However, post-Covid, patient awareness of vaccination has improved, and they are taking flu vaccinations. Because of that, the frequency of severe attacks has gone down in the elderly population, especially in winter.”

Factors That Can Cause Asthma Attacks

Pollution

Outdoor air pollution is one of the most common and primary causes of asthma attacks. Dr Jeenam Shah, Consultant, Pulmonology, Jaslok Hospital & Research Centre, Mumbai, says, “Outdoor air pollution contains chemicals like carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrous oxide, and particulate matter that can trigger asthma attacks.” That said, pay attention to daily pollution forecasts and avoid going out when the levels are concerning. Outdoor air pollution is one of the most common and primary causes of asthma attacks, Dr Shah says . He adds, “Outdoor air pollution contains chemicals like carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrous oxide, and particulate matter that can trigger asthma attacks.” Pay attention to daily pollution forecasts and avoid going out when the levels are concerning, he advises. 

Indoor Air Pollution

Dr Shah says, “Not many people know about indoor air pollution. All the cooking gas, agarbatti, paints, or any kind of construction going on indoors can also trigger an allergic reaction, such as an asthma attack.” 

Tobacco Smoke

Tobacco smoke is very harmful for everyone, especially people with asthma. Both passive and active smoking can lead to asthma attacks. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends making your home a smoke-free zone. 

Dust Mites

Dust mites are microorganisms, which can exist on your pillow covers, sheets and beddings. Dr Shah says, “When you sleep on your bed, the dust mites can crawl over you and lead to allergic reactions. That is why asthma attacks happen more in the night.” The CDC recommends using allergen-proof mattress and pillowcase covers, avoiding down-filled pillows, quilts, or comforters, and washing beddings weekly. 

Pets 

If you have furry pets like dogs and cats, Dr Shah advises to practise caution while handling them. According to the American Lung Association (ALA), coming in contact with pet dander or tiny flakes from the pet’s skin can cause contact dermatitis, or a skin rash, hives, or trigger a person’s asthma.

Moulds

Moulds that have fungus, which get accumulated in your bathrooms or any place of leaks, can also trigger asthma attacks. Mould spores are said to be dangers to the immune system and can cause an allergic reaction. 

Also Read: Can Smoking Affect Your Blood Pressure? Expert Weighs In

Pollens

Similar to a pet dander and dust mites, pollen, which are microspores in plants, can also cause asthma attacks. In certain seasons, the pollen concentration of some plants is higher, which is why asthma attacks can also be seasonal.

Viral Infections

Dr Shah says, “Asthma attacks can also be triggered by certain viral infections, such as influenza.” According to the doctor, these can be prevented by taking necessary precautions like wearing masks, maintaining social distance, and getting vaccinated on time. 

Bottomline

Asthma attacks can be scary. The fact that a person is unable to breathe can be a frightening episode for many. However, timely diagnosis and an awareness of all the triggers can help in proper management.