Asthma is undoubtedly one of the most common lung problems there is today. An asthma attack can happen anytime, anywhere and affects more people everyday. A child can be born with it or develop it late in life. Research is being continually being conducted and new information regarding asthma is regularly documented but as yet, a total cure for asthma has not been found.



Asthma triggers are classified in two categories: allergens and irritants.

Asthma triggers that fall into the allergen category are animal dander, pollen, mold, dust mites and even cockroaches. An infestation of cockroaches can lead to an asthma attack because the roach leaves a residue on everything it walks across. This residue is the asthma trigger. These types of asthma triggers are the most prevalent and can occur throughout the year, striking at any time. Asthma has become so rampant, that insurance companies have recognized the need to extend coverage to asthma clinics that have been set up by hospitals and doctors in order to educate the public in the effects of asthma and how to recognize the signs of an onset of an attack.

Asthma irritants include cigarette smoke, a change in weather from warm to cold, laundry detergents and soaps that contain dyes and perfumes.

Researchers are discovering new ways to combat asthma everyday. An asthma trigger does not cause asthma but it does induce an asthma attack. There are products and medications on the market today that were not available five years ago. Nebulizers and inhalers are two of the most common ways to treat asthma attacks. There are also medications on the market today that can be used as preventative measures and medications that are used as part of an asthma management plan. In some cases, steroids are prescribed to keep asthma under control.

In extreme cases, hospitalization may be required to get an asthma attack under control. When trying to find what triggers an asthma attack, doctors rely on the patient or the patient's guardian to answer specific questions on what was happening when the asthma attack started. By asking these questions, the doctor can find out what triggered the asthma attack. There are many known asthma triggers and many more that are unknown. Researchers are finding new information everyday regarding asthma and are hopeful there will be a cure in the not too distant future.