What is an Asthma Attack or Flare-Up?
Asthma attacks, also called flare-ups or episodes, happen when something bothers your airways. During an attack, the sides of the airways swell, and mucus clogs them. This narrows your airways and makes it harder for air to move in and out of your lungs. During an asthma attack, your symptoms will be worse than usual.
What Triggers an Attack?
A trigger is something that causes an asthma attack. Your triggers may be different from someone else’s. They can change over time. It is important to know your triggers and learn how to avoid them. Allergies can trigger asthma attacks. Some common allergies include:
Dust mites. Dust mites are tiny bugs that live in house dust. You can try to avoid dust mites by:
- Using mattress and pillowcase covers to put a barrier between you and the dust mites
- Not using down-filled pillows, quilts, or comforters
- Removing stuffed animals and clutter from your bedroom
- Vacuuming regularly
- Washing bedding in hot water
Pets. Pets can also trigger attacks. If your pet is causing your asthma attacks, you can take steps to reduce your risk by:
- Keeping pets out of your bedroom
- Bathing pets regularly
- Vacuuming and mopping floors every week to remove pet hair
Cockroaches. Cockroaches and their droppings can trigger an asthma attack. You can help control cockroaches by:
- Vacuuming and sweeping areas that can attract cockroaches daily.
- Cleaning up food and liquids that may be on dishes, cabinets or around trash cans.
- Using roach traps to get cockroaches under control might also be needed.
Mold. Mold is a fungus that grows in moist conditions. Breathing in mold can cause an asthma attack. It is important to get rid of mold in your home. You can start by making sure water leaks are repaired and dry out any water-damaged areas.
Smoking. If you have asthma, it is important to stop smoking and avoid being around people when they smoke. Make sure parents, friends, or relatives do not smoke in your home or car.
Outdoor air pollution. This can be fumes or smoke from industries and vehicle exhaust. When you are planning to be outdoors, check the air quality forecasts to plan activities when pollution levels are low.
Colds, infections, and the flu. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America explains why it is important to get vaccines like the flu shot and pneumococcal (pneumonia) shot if you have asthma. See https://aafa.org/asthma/asthma-prevention/vaccine-recommendations/ for details. You can also take a quick, simple quiz from the Centers for Disease Control to see what vaccines you may need. Go to https://www2.cdc.gov/nip/adultimmsched/.