Asthma is a respiratory condition where a person finds it difficult to breathe due to constriction of the airways. In most cases, asthma attacks happen as a result of various allergies. The article is a guide to the types and main triggers of asthma and allergies.

Allergies and Asthma
While discussing the types and main triggers of asthma and allergies, we need to discuss the link between allergies and asthma. Asthma is a common respiratory problem and it is estimated that 1 in every 13 persons experiences this problem. One of the factors that trigger the condition is an allergy to some substance.

It is believed that 50 million Americans have some form of the allergy or other, which can cause the immune system to overreact. As a result, the airways become constricted to prevent the allergen from entering the lungs. This leads to wheezing, difficulty in breathing, and associated symptoms.

Triggers of Asthma
Apart from allergies, there are various other triggers for an asthma attack. They include:

• Excessive exercise
• Smoking or exposure to tobacco smoke.
• Sinusitis, a condition where the sinus cavities are blocked and may become infected.
• Change in weather.
• Certain medications can trigger an asthma attack in some people.

Types of Asthma
The following are different types of asthma:

• Allergic asthma:  This is when asthma is triggered due to exposure to an allergen. This is referred to as allergic rhinitis and commonly causes sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose, cough, and wheezing. Pollen is one such allergen, which seasonally causes this type of asthma.
• Exercise-induced asthma:  This happens due to exercise when too much of strain can cause breathing problems and coughing.
• Occupational asthma:  This is a form of asthma that is triggered off due to work-related issues. People who work with animals, paint, furniture, and in the field can experience these symptoms.
• Night-time asthma:  Asthma attacks during sleep can be dangerous as it can cause severe breathing problems. It can also affect quality of sleep.

Asthma Triggers
The following are some of the common triggers of allergic asthma:

• Air-borne allergens are those that are carried through the air and can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Common allergens that spread through air are pollen, cigarette smoke, smoke from burning vegetation, and dust.
• Pets can be a problem for those having the condition. Dander on animal fur can trigger an asthma attack. Plus, proteins present on animal skin, hair, or feces can also trigger it.
• Dust mites are another fairly common cause of allergic asthma. Mites are present in dust found on the floor, under carpets, rugs, and on surfaces.
• Bugs like cockroaches, ticks, and fleas can also cause allergic asthma attacks in some people.
• Perfumes, strong fragrances, and incense can cause allergic asthma attacks.
• Certain food substances, especially coloring and additives can work as allergens.

While there is no complete cure to the main types of asthma, avoiding triggers which lead to allergies, and carrying medication at all times can help manage the condition quite well.