There are MANY possible triggers that can cause an asthma attack. These triggers may cause the attack to occur in hours or even within a few minutes.

Take this self test to see what might trigger your asthma. You may be surprised at some of the possible triggers you are exposed to.

Then take the list to your doctor at your next appointment. Discuss them AND learn how to avoid them!

Check all those that seem to cause an attack or make your asthma symptoms worse and discuss them with your doctor or asthma educator:

	Pollens - trees, grasses, weeds
	avoid cutting lawns or being around pollens in season wear a mask if you must be exposed
	Dust - carpets, furniture, mattresses, pillows, stuffed toys, furnaces
	vacuum regularly and consider a mask when dusting use a dust proof pillow and mattress cover use a good quality furnace filter avoid feather pillows wash toys, sheets weekly in hot water
	Molds -snow molds, plants, damp rooms such as bathrooms
	clean regularly remove house plants reduce humidity/clean humidifiers regularly if you use them
	Animal Dander - cats, dogs, horses, rabbits
	pets in the house should be removed if possible if not possible, wash/brush pets regularly
	Infections or Colds
	wash hands often and avoid touching nose or mouth
	Food -common food allergies include nuts, milk, sea food, food additives [Monosodium Glutamate (MSG), sulfites in beer and wine or used to preserve salads]
	avoid those foods which you know are triggers ask questions in restaurants about preservatives and ingredients
	Smoke
	Stop smoking avoid smoke filled areas
	Perfumes
	stop wearing if sensitive discard fragrance cards in magazines
	Cleaning Products
	use in well ventilated areas
	Paint
	avoid or use in well ventilated areas use low VOC (low odour) latex paints and avoid oil based paints
	C old Air
	wear a scarf over nose and mouth
	Damp air
	Avoid damp areas if possible
	Exercise
	use inhaler 10-15 minutes pre-exercise warm-up before and cool down after gradually over 10 minutes
	Laughter
	practice relaxation techniques
	Stress
	practice relaxation techniques
	Sneezing
	practice relaxation techniques
	Medications - may include aspirin (ASA), some blood pressure pills
	avoid those that trigger your asthma and discuss with doctor and/or pharmacist
	Work exposure - do you work around animals, dust, flour, smoke, strong fumes
	wear a mask discuss with doctor