What are the key triggers for acute asthma attacks?
In those who are predisposed to asthma, a variety of stimuli can cause acute attacks. These include allergens such as pollen, dust and smoke from the environment. When these “toxins” are inhaled they cause the reaction cascade described above. Infectious processes, particularly viral infections that reach the lungs, cause attacks as well. Finally, cold weather exposure and exercise have been shown to cause asthma attacks. Although there are disparate causes, the final common result is bronchospasm and airway inflammation that lead to the symptoms and signs of an attack.
