Understanding asthma: triggers and treatments

Asthma is a common yet complex condition that affects millions worldwide. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or hoping to better control your condition, this article can help. You'll learn about asthma's symptoms, triggers, and treatments, and how to manage the condition effectively.

What are the symptoms of asthma?

Asthma symptoms can vary, but they often include:

Shortness of breath
Wheezing
Chest tightness
Persistent coughing, especially at night or early morning

If you’re experiencing the signs and symptoms of asthma, speak to your doctor or asthma nurse. You can also start an online consultation and one of our clinicians can share your treatment options.

Our service is not suitable for urgent asthma or breathing problems. If you are struggling with your breathing, having an asthma attack or have any chest pains or discomfort call 999 or go to A&E immediately.

What causes asthma?

Asthma has no single cause, and often results from a combination of:

Genetic factors
Environmental triggers, such as allergens and pollution
Respiratory infections during early childhood

Identifying and managing asthma triggers can help reduce its impact on your daily life.

Who has an increased risk of developing asthma?

Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing asthma, including:

Family history of asthma or allergies
Exposure to second-hand smoke
Living in urban or highly polluted areas
Obesity or being overweight
Having other allergic conditions like eczema

Work-related factors account for around 9-15% of adult-onset asthma cases, making workplaces a significant contributor to asthma. Common triggers include:

Dusts like wood and flour, chemical fumes, and industrial gases.
Biological allergens like mold or animal dander.

Jobs in manufacturing, farming, cleaning, and healthcare are considered high-risk. If you think your asthma might be work-related, do your best to improve ventilation, wear protective gear and speak to your doctor.

Can you prevent asthma?

While it’s not clear how to prevent asthma, you can lower your risk by:

Avoiding known allergens and triggers like dust, pets, pollen, and air pollution.
Dealing with respiratory infections early using prescribed medication and following a doctor or clinician’s advice.
Quitting smoking and avoiding second-hand smoke exposure.
Exercising regularly with gentle activities like swimming or yoga.
Eating a nutritious diet with lots of fruits and vegetables and maintaining a healthy weight to reduce pressure on your lungs.
Managing stress with breathing exercises, mindfulness, and sleep.

How does asthma affect the lungs?

Asthma causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, making breathing difficult. It also leads to increased mucus production, further obstructing your airflow. Over time, this can reduce lung function, especially if you don’t manage it properly.

Asthma triggers

Common asthma triggers include:

Allergens like pollen, dust mites, and pet dander (flakes of skin, hair or feathers they shed)
Respiratory infections, including colds and flus
Physical activity or exercise
Weather changes, especially cold air
Air pollution or strong chemical smells like cleaning products, paint fumes, solvents, and pesticides

Properly identifying common triggers for asthma attacks can reduce flare-ups and improve overall control. You’ll also need to use any medication prescribed to you correctly, including inhalers.

Treating asthma

Effective asthma management often involves a combination of medication and lifestyle changes.

Medication

Inhalers to manage symptoms, both relievers and preventers
Oral medications for severe cases

Lifestyle

Avoiding triggers and allergens
Staying active to improve lung function
Keeping your environment clean and dust-free by regular vacuuming with a HEPA filter, wiping surfaces with a damp cloth, washing bedding weekly, and using air purifiers to reduce allergens.

According to NHS England, at least two thirds of asthma deaths are thought to be preventable, and we have on average three deaths from asthma per day in the UK. Prompt action and consistent care are crucial to avoiding complications.

Thinking about asthma treatment?

Go to our asthma service

Is there a permanent treatment for asthma?

Currently, there’s no permanent cure for asthma. However, with the right treatment and management, most people can control their symptoms effectively.

Speak to your doctor or asthma nurse or start a short online consultation and our clinicians can recommend the right treatment for your needs.