You’ve certainly heard of some of the various causes of asthma attacks, which include wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing. Pollen, physical exertion, psychological strain, and other factors can all serve as triggers. However, asthma triggers are not the same thing as the true causes of asthma.
Researchers have been unable to pin down the root reasons. But here’s what we know about the triggers for asthma, and the treatments that may help.
Genetics
Asthma, like many other diseases, is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Research suggests that genetics play a significant role in asthma, with approximately 50% or more of cases being attributed to inherited genes.
According to Traci Gonzales, a spokesperson for the American Lung Association and a nurse practitioner with UTHealth McGovern Medical School Houston, there are identified genetic traits associated with asthma. If parents have asthma, there is an increased likelihood that their children will also develop the condition.
Having a family history of allergies further increases the risk of developing asthma. This genetic predisposition to asthma and other allergic conditions is known as atopy.
Scientists have already identified numerous genes that may be involved in asthma, and it is likely that there are many more yet to be discovered. Some of these genes are related to the functioning of the immune system, while others are associated with the functioning of the airways. However, it is important to note that genes alone are unlikely to be the sole cause of asthma. Rather, it is a combination of inheriting certain genes and being exposed to specific environmental triggers that can lead to the development of asthma.
Allergies
In some cases, asthma triggers and causes can overlap, particularly in adult-onset asthma. Allergy-related factors, such as exposure to dust mites or mold, can contribute to the development of asthma.
While it may not be possible to predict which specific allergy will lead to asthma, managing symptoms can be achieved by avoiding triggers. Identifying your specific allergens can be done with the help of an allergist, who can conduct tests to pinpoint the substances that trigger your allergic reactions and potentially contribute to your asthma symptoms. By knowing your triggers, you can take proactive measures to minimize exposure and better manage your asthma.
Respiratory Infections
Respiratory infections, especially in young children, can be a trigger for asthma development.
Children have developing immune systems, and the effects of infections can sometimes lead to long-term outcomes, including the onset of asthma. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and parainfluenza are common viral infections that can cause symptoms similar to a cold and potentially contribute to the development of asthma.
While it may not be possible to completely prevent infections, taking preventive measures can help reduce the risk. This includes getting appropriate vaccinations, such as the seasonal flu vaccine, and practicing good hand hygiene by regularly washing hands. These steps can help minimize the likelihood of respiratory infections and potentially decrease the chances of asthma development or worsening symptoms.
Air Pollution and Smoke
There is evidence to suggest that both air pollution and secondhand smoke exposure may contribute to the development of asthma in individuals who do not already have the condition.
Research indicates that exposure to cigarette smoke, particularly during childhood or before birth (via maternal exposure), may play a role in asthma development. This exposure can have indirect effects by making a child more susceptible to infections, which in turn increase the risk of asthma. It may also have direct effects on the immune system or the development of the respiratory system.
While there is a correlation between smoking exposure and asthma, the exact mechanisms are not fully understood. It is unclear whether the exposure is from secondhand smoke or in utero exposure, or if individuals who smoke themselves have a higher incidence of asthma.
It is important to note that cigarette smoking itself does not seem to directly cause adult-onset asthma. However, smoking can exacerbate symptoms in individuals who already have asthma. Quitting smoking and minimizing exposure to secondhand smoke are crucial steps in managing asthma symptoms and improving overall respiratory health.
Your Job
Occupational asthma is a type of asthma that is caused by exposure to irritants, such as fumes, dust, or gases, in the workplace. Certain occupations, such as baking, farming, and jobs in chemical or plastic manufacturing, are associated with a higher risk of developing occupational asthma. While some individuals may develop asthma symptoms immediately upon exposure to a specific toxin in their work environment, it is more common for symptoms to develop gradually after chronic exposure over time.
It’s important to note that not everyone who is exposed to occupational irritants will develop asthma. Individual susceptibility can vary, and some individuals may be more prone to developing the condition due to genetic or other factors.
If you suspect that your asthma symptoms are work-related, it is crucial to seek medical attention and inform your healthcare provider about your occupational exposure. They can help evaluate your symptoms, conduct relevant tests, and determine if there is a connection between your asthma and workplace environment. Taking appropriate measures to minimize exposure to workplace triggers, such as using protective equipment or modifying work processes, may be necessary to manage and prevent further exacerbation of occupational asthma symptoms.
Obesity
Obesity is a known risk factor for asthma, and individuals who are obese have a higher prevalence of asthma compared to those with a healthy body mass index (BMI). According to the American Lung Association, the rate of asthma is approximately 11% among individuals who are obese, compared to 7% among adults with a healthy BMI. This association is particularly pronounced in obese women, with almost 15% of them experiencing asthma.
The exact reasons behind the link between obesity and asthma are not fully understood. However, obesity is known to contribute to chronic inflammation throughout the body, and this inflammation may play a role in the development or exacerbation of asthma symptoms. Additionally, individuals who are obese often face challenges in effectively managing their asthma symptoms.
It’s important to recognize that obesity is a complex issue with various contributing factors. Engaging in regular physical activity and adopting a healthy eating pattern can help in managing weight and potentially reduce the impact of obesity on asthma symptoms. However, it’s essential to work closely with healthcare professionals to develop a comprehensive plan that addresses both weight management and asthma control, as each person’s situation may be unique.
Hormones
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), asthma is more prevalent in women compared to men. Hormonal factors, particularly fluctuations in estrogen levels, have been observed to potentially contribute to the development and changes in asthma symptoms among women. However, further research is needed to fully understand the underlying mechanisms and the specific role of hormones in asthma.
Many women with asthma report experiencing variations in their symptoms during different hormonal phases. These changes can occur during puberty, before or during menstruation, during or immediately after pregnancy, and before or after menopause. The exact reasons for these symptom fluctuations are not fully elucidated, but it is believed that hormonal shifts may influence airway inflammation and bronchial reactivity in individuals with asthma.
It is important for women with asthma to be aware of these potential hormonal associations and to work closely with their healthcare providers to effectively manage their symptoms throughout different life stages. Adjustments in asthma management strategies, such as medication dosages or timing, may be considered in collaboration with healthcare professionals to optimize asthma control during these periods of hormonal changes.