Causes of asthma: recognising triggers and what helps

Allergies are a possible asthma trigger

In children, asthma is often triggered by allergies. The exact cause of allergies is still not fully understood, but genes are known to play a key role. In many cases, asthma symptoms greatly ease or even disappear as children get older.

Triggers of allergic asthma

Causes of allergic asthma include allergens from house dust mites, animals (cats, dogs, guinea pigs, etc.), pollen and mould spores. In teenagers and adults, workplace substances can also cause allergic asthma – for example, flour dust in bakeries.

Asthma without allergies: What are other potential causes?

Non-allergic asthma often doesn't appear until adulthood. The cause of asthma in adults is often unclear, but it's usually linked to chronic rhinitis and/or inflammation of the sinuses. Intense physical exertion, stress, infections, reactions to certain medications or chemical irritants can all affect asthma too.

What is asthma exactly?

Asthma is a disease of the airways in which the bronchial tubes are chronically inflamed. This makes them hypersensitive to external stimuli like cold air or smoke. The muscles around the airways tighten and cramp, while the bronchial lining swells, narrowing the airways even further. Patients then suffer from a dry cough, wheezing and shortness of breath.

Asthma affects everyone differently

The degree and severity of symptoms vary widely. In some people, asthma symptoms like shortness of breath or a persistent cough are only triggered after extreme physical exertion.

Can asthma be prevented?

Even if someone is genetically predisposed to asthma, there are steps they can take to reduce their risk. This especially applies to people who react to airborne allergens like pollen or dust mites.

Asthma risk: factors you can control

It's important to avoid irritants wherever possible. Smoking (including passive smoking) is one of the biggest risk factors. Exhaust fumes and cold air can also contribute to asthma. Make sure to stay well hydrated and look after your respiratory system and dental health to avoid infections.