Asthma

There are many different factors that can trigger an asthma attack. These may be found indoors and outdoors and include:

• Changes in temperature and weather
• Tobacco smoke and wood smoke
• Perfume, paint and any strong odors or fumes
• Allergens (particles that cause allergies) like dust mites, pollen, molds and animal dander
• Infections (viral or bacterial) including common cold and influenza
• Certain medications eg. aspirin

Atopy and Asthma

Atopy is a genetic tendency to develop allergic disease. This is usually manifested in the skin by a rash (eczema or hives). Other manifestations are allergic rhinitis and asthma.