Asthma is a condition in which the airways narrow and swell, making it difficult to breathe and triggering coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. The exact cause of asthma is unknown, but there are several factors that can increase the likelihood of developing the condition:
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Allergies: Allergic conditions such as atopic dermatitis (eczema) or allergic rhinitis (hay fever) are linked to people who get asthma. Some peoples allergies can cause an asthma attack, triggered by allergens such as pollen, dust mites, animal fur or feathers.
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Respiratory infections: Respiratory problems during infancy and childhood can cause wheezing. Some children who experience viral respiratory infections go on to develop chronic asthma.
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Environmental factors: People can develop asthma after exposure to things that irritate the airways, such as allergens, toxins, fumes, and second- or third-hand smoke. These can be especially harmful to infants and young children.
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Occupational exposures: If you have asthma, exposures to certain elements in the workplace can cause asthma symptoms. For some people, exposure to certain dusts (industrial or wood dusts), chemical fumes and vapors, and molds can cause asthma to develop for the very first time.
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Exercise: Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) is a frequent asthma trigger, especially in cold air.
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Genetics: Having a parent with asthma, having a severe respiratory infection as a child, or having an allergic condition can increase the likelihood of developing asthma.
Asthma triggers vary from person to person, and some people react to only a few while others react to many.
