Asthma Specialist

What are Common Triggers for an Asthma Attack?

Asthma can be triggered by any number of things, including allergens, toxic substances, and emotional or traumatic events. A person who has been diagnosed with asthma often have allergies as well. An allergic reaction occurs when the person is exposed to a specific allergen that causes a reaction in the body. If the reaction is severe enough, it can trigger an asthma attack. Individuals who have asthma that is triggered by emotional trauma will have attacks that are brought on by events that are extremely upsetting or takes them outside of their comfort zone. Individuals who have allergy-induced asthma may be at an increased risk of emotionally triggered asthma.

Are There Different Types of Asthma?

There are several different types of asthma. Allergy induced asthma is triggered by exposure to allergens. Exercise-induced asthma is brought on by prolonged levels of intense activity. Some asthma attacks are triggered by uncontrolled bouts of coughing, while others may be triggered by stress or emotional upset. Occupational asthma often presents itself in the workplace and can be brought on by high levels of stress or exposure to certain types of chemicals. In order to determine what type of asthma is present, doctors can perform a battery of tests that monitor stress levels and other factors.

How is Asthma Treated?

Doctors treat asthma using both quick relief methods for acute attacks and long-term treatment methods as a means to control breathing patterns and keep acute attacks from occurring. Medications that dilate the bronchial tubes are used to open the airways when an attack is underway. Corticosteroids and other anti-inflammatory medications are used to keep the lungs and airways stabilized so that if an attack does occur, it is easily brought under control. Doctors will often prescribe both treatments. The long term medication will be used on a daily basis, while a rescue inhaler is prescribed to control acute attacks when they occur.