The Asthma Society of Canada
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About Asthma
What Is Asthma?
How to Tell if You Have Asthma
Who Gets Asthma?
Common Asthma Triggers
What to Expect if You Have Asthma
What to Do if Your Asthma Worsens
Treatment
Taking Control
Lifestyle
Resources & Support
About Asthma

Common Asthma Triggers

About Inflammatory Triggers | About Symptom Triggers

About Symptom Triggers

Smoke
Cigarettes can provoke asthma symptoms, even in individuals who do not smoke themselves. That's because even secondhand smoke can be a trigger.

What's more, children with asthma who are exposed to secondhand smoke are more likely to experience asthma attacks, and their symptoms are more likely to be severe.

If you or your child has asthma and you smoke, talk to your doctor about how to quit.

Exercise
Exercise can cause asthma symptoms to flare up, especially when asthma is not well-controlled. If your asthma limits your ability to exercise, your asthma is not being managed properly so talk to your doctor. Regular exercise is important to maintaining overall good health and it is attainable for the majority of people with asthma.

Cold Air
Cold air can trigger asthma symptoms. Be aware of changes in the weather and, if necessary, exercise indoors if the cold air triggers asthma symptoms.

Chemical Fumes
Some chemicals, including those used in certain workplaces, have been linked to asthma symptoms. As with all triggers, you should try to avoid chemical fumes if they affect you.

Air Pollutants
Smog and some air pollutants can make asthma symptoms worse. Smog is a combination of vapors, gases and particles that react to sunlight to produce ozone near the ground. The particles in the air along with ozone, cause lung damage and breathing problems in people with asthma. Where possible, avoid going outdoors on days that have poor air-quality indexes.

Intense Emotions
Stress and intense emotions can cause some people with asthma to experience symptoms, especially if their asthma is not well-controlled. If you find that your asthma becomes worse when you experience strong emotions, talk to your doctor or your asthma educator.



Do You Have Asthma?

When is a cough more than a cough? What's the relationship between asthma and allergies, asthma and being constantly stuffed up, and asthma and acid reflux? Learn the signs to watch for as well as when to talk to your doctor.

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Asthma Basics Booklet Series

We developed the Asthma Basics Steps to help you learn about good asthma control. Use these booklets to learn more about asthma diagnosis, triggers and medications, as well to guide your discussions with you doctor, pharmacist and asthma educator.

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