Asthma. Many of us have heard about this chronic condition that affects the airways, and most know that it is something that makes it difficult, if not impossible, for a person to breathe. For those who struggle with this condition, managing it can feel a bit like navigating a minefield where triggers lurk around every corner. For that reason, patients often want to know what makes asthma worse so they can take steps to avoid those triggers.
Unfortunately, determining what makes asthma worse is more complicated than one would think. Asthma is a condition that varies widely from person to person, so what triggers one individual’s symptoms might not affect another at all. Nevertheless, there are several common environmental factors and lifestyle choices that asthma doctors typically contribute to making asthma worse. If you or a loved one is struggling with asthma, knowing what causes flare-ups can empower you to take proactive steps to reduce their frequency and severity.
What Makes Asthma Worse: Common Triggers and Risks
There are quite a few different factors that can make asthma worse. Some factors are environmental, while others are more closely related to a person’s lifestyle or underlying health conditions. While many triggers are unavoidable, others can be controlled or even minimized with careful planning or management.
Environmental Allergens
One of the most common causes of asthma exacerbations is exposure to allergens. These allergens can include:
- Pollen
- Pet dander
- Dust mites
- Mold
- And more
Seasonal changes often increase the concentration of allergens in the air, which is why people with asthma might experience worsening symptoms during certain times of the year. For those individuals who are allergic to certain substances, these triggers can cause inflammation in the airways, leading to wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing.
Air Pollution
Air pollution can occur both indoors and outdoors and is another big factor that can worsen asthma symptoms. Pollutants such as smoke, car exhaust, and industrial emissions can irritate the lining of the lungs, which, in turn, exacerbates asthma symptoms. For people with asthma living in large cities with high levels of air pollution, asthma may become more and more difficult to control. Even indoor pollutants, such as tobacco smoke, vaping, or fumes from cleaning products, can trigger a flare-up.
Respiratory Infections
When people with asthma come down with a cold or respiratory infection, their symptoms will often worsen. That is because these infections can increase inflammation in the airways, making it more difficult to breathe. For this reason, those with asthma are better off taking preventative measures like getting their flu or pneumonia shot and getting medical attention at the first sign of an infection. Respiratory infections can be especially dangerous for children with asthma, making it even more important to have a proactive plan in place.
Stress and Anxiety
While asthma is a physical condition, it can be heavily impacted by one’s mental health. Stress and anxiety can trigger asthma symptoms, leading to hyperventilation, tightness in the chest, and shortness of breath. These symptoms then create a vicious cycle, stressing out the individual even more, so their asthma worsens even further. Stress management techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, and regular physical activity, can help manage both asthma and the psychological factors that contribute to flare-ups.
Weather and Temperature Changes
Even changes in the weather or the temperature can worsen asthma symptoms. Cold, dry air is known to cause airways to tighten, while hot and/or humid conditions can make it harder for some individuals to breathe. Sudden temperature changes can also strain the body, making it more susceptible to an asthma attack. Asthma patients should be mindful of weather conditions and take the appropriate precautions, such as dressing warmly in the cold or staying indoors when it is super hot.
When You Should Seek Help
If you or your child is experiencing frequent asthma flare-ups or your asthma seems to be becoming harder to control, it might be time to seek help from a specialist. An asthma doctor can offer tailored advice on how to manage the condition more effectively while also identifying any new triggers that might be worsening the symptoms. For those with pediatric asthma, it’s particularly important to visit a pediatric asthma clinic to get age-appropriate care and treatment options.
Take Charge of Your Asthma Care
Effectively managing asthma starts with understanding your unique triggers and partnering with a knowledgeable healthcare professional to create a personalized care plan. With the right support—whether through lifestyle adjustments, targeted medications, or environmental changes—you can take confident steps toward better breathing and fewer flare-ups. If you’re ready to take control of your asthma, consider connecting with a trusted asthma doctor like Dr. Shukla to explore your best path forward.
