Asthma Causes & Risks

Causes

The cause of asthma is not known. It does seem to run in some families. Current research suggests a combination of environment, genetics and biology may lead to asthma. Possible triggers of an asthma attack in a person with asthma include:

Exercise
Cold weather
Viral illness
Sinusitis
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Sulfites used in dried fruits and wine
Medications, such as aspirin , ibuprofen , and beta-blockers
Exposure to irritants or allergens, including:
- Cigarette smoke, smoke from a wood-burning stove
- Pet dander
- Dust
- Chemicals
- Mold and mildew
- Pollen
- Smog or air pollution
- Perfumed products

Risk Factors

These factors increase your chance of developing asthma. Tell your doctor if you have any of these risk factors:

Living in a large urban area
Regularly breathing in cigarette smoke (including second-hand smoke)
Regularly breathing in industrial or agricultural chemicals
A parent who has asthma
History of multiple respiratory infections during childhood
Low birth weight
Being overweight
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2024 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.