Common Asthma Triggers

Allergens

Dust or house mites, molds, pollen, animal dander, cockroach feces, pets, and feathers

Exercise (called exercise-induced bronchoconstriction)

Particularly exercise in cold or dry air

Irritants

Firsthand and secondhand smoke from tobacco, marijuana, or cocaine; wood smoke; cold air; irritating fumes from perfumes, cleaning products, scented candles, and air pollution; strong odors

Viral respiratory infections*

In young children: Respiratory syncytial virus, common cold virus (rhinovirus), parainfluenza virus infection

In older children: Upper respiratory infections (particularly with rhinovirus) and viral pneumonia

Other

Emotions (such as stress, anxiety, anger, and excitement)

Crying or hearty laughing

Aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)