Allergens
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Respiratory infections and sinusitis
Infections can cause irritation of the airways, nose, throat, lungs, and sinuses, and worsens asthma.
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Irritants
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Strong odors and sprays, such as perfumes, household cleaners, cooking fumes, paints, and varnishes
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Chemicals, such as coal, chalk dust, or talcum powder
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Air pollutants, such as tobacco smoke, wood smoke, chemicals in the air and ozone
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Changing weather conditions, including changes in temperature, barometric pressure, humidity, and strong winds
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Chemical-exposure on the job, such as occupational vapors, dust, gases, or fumes
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Sensitivity to medications
Medications, such as aspirin and sulfites, may trigger asthmatic attacks as a result of sensitivities or allergies to them. These medications often include:
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Aspirin
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Other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, indomethacin, naproxen
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Sulfites used as preservatives in food and beverage
Before giving your child any medication, including over-the-counter medications, talk with your child's doctor.
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Exercise
Strenuous physical exercise can trigger an asthma attack, often because of the inhaled cool and dry air. Long-term strenuous activities, such as long distance running, are most likely to induce asthma, and swimming is the least likely.
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Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD)
GERD, a condition characterized by persistent reflux of stomach acids, is common in individuals with asthma. Symptoms may include heartburn, belching, or spitting up in infants.
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Smoke
Tobacco smoke, whether directly or passively inhaled, has been shown to worsen asthma.
Wood smoke from wood-burning heating stoves and fireplaces can release irritating chemicals, such as sulfur dioxide.
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Emotional anxiety and nervous stress
Reactions from stress and anxiety are considered to be more of an effect than a cause. They can cause fatigue, which may affect the immune system and, in turn, increase either asthma symptoms or bring on an attack.
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