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It's a New Day in Public Health.

The Florida Department of Health works to protect, promote, and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county, and community efforts.

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Cause and Triggers

Contact the Florida Asthma Program

Although there is no cure for asthma, most people can control asthma so that they have fewer symptoms and can live healthy, active lives.

An asthma episode can happen when you are exposed to “asthma triggers” or something to which you are sensitized. Your triggers can be very different from those of someone else with asthma.  You may react to just one trigger or you may find that several things act as triggers.

Knowing your triggers and learning how to avoid them are simple actions you can take to control your asthma.

Some of the most common triggers are:

Allergens

  • Indoor mold
  • Pollens from trees, grasses, and plants
  • Animal dander and saliva
  • Dust mites
  • Cockroaches

Irritants

  • Tobacco smoke
  • Wood burning smoke
  • Perfumes and sprays
  • Household chemicals
  • Strong odors
  • Air pollution

Other

  • Flu and cold virus
  • Sulfites (used as a preservative in foods)
  • Cold air or extreme weather changes
  • ExerciseExtreme emotion such as crying or laughing

image of common asthma triggers.

For more information about trigger identification and ways to reduce your exposure, visit the Environmental Protection Agency.