What causes asthma?

The causes for asthma are not clearly known. Environmental factors (heavy smog, smoke from forest fires, pollen), lifestyle factors (smoking), medical conditions (premature birth with underdeveloped lungs, acid reflux disease) and genetic factors (parent with asthma or allergies) can increase the risk for asthma. At least 40% of people with asthma have allergies. Each person has their own unique set of triggers that can increase their asthma symptoms or trigger an asthma attack.

• allergens (pollen, mold, animal dander, dust mites, cockroaches and urine, droppings and saliva from rodents and pests)
• tobacco smoke, wood smoke
• scented products (perfumes, shaving lotions, deodorants, hair sprays, soaps, candles...)
• foods (strawberries, peanuts, shellfish...)
• medications (penicillin, aspirin, sulfas...)
• nitrogen dioxide (an odorless gas that can be a byproduct of indoor fuel-burning appliances, such as gas stoves, gas or oil furnaces, fireplaces, wood stoves and un-vented kerosene or gas space heaters.
• respiratory infections, sinus infections
• weather changes, cold air
• exercise
• stress
• heartburn-acid reflux disease (stomach acid flowing back up the esophagus or food pipe)
• anxiety