Asthma and the Environment
Exposure to environmental triggers is a common cause of asthma exacerbations. Air pollution, secondhand smoke, and chemical fumes are some of the most common environmental triggers for asthma.
Air pollution is one of the leading environmental triggers for asthma. Particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, and ozone are some of the main pollutants that can worsen asthma symptoms.
Secondhand smoke is another common environmental trigger of asthma. The toxins and irritants in cigarette smoke can cause airway inflammation and trigger asthma symptoms. Chemical fumes from cleaning products, paints, and other solvents can also irritate the airways and trigger asthma attacks.
Environmental triggers can worsen asthma symptoms and increase the risk of asthma exacerbations. For instance, allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, and mold spores can trigger asthma exacerbations in people who are allergic to them. It is, therefore, essential to avoid exposure to these triggers as much as possible.
