People with asthma have sensitive airways and react to things that they are allergic to and to other things in the air. These are called triggers and some are:

• Allergens, such as pollen
• Cockroaches
• Cold weather
• Feeling actions, crying, laughing and yelling
• House dust or mold
• Infections, such as the cold, flu and sinus
• Irritants, smoke (tobacco, wood), scented sprays, household cleaners
• Medication
• Pets
• Pollen
• Smoke
• Workout, sports

If you notice any of these signs you may be having an asthma attack and you should call your doctor. The doctor will show you what to do.

• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Feeling short of breath or tired
• Tight chest
• Sneezing or runny nose

No one knows what causes asthma. Here are some causes that could play a role:

• Family history.
• Allergies
• Tobacco smoke or vaping.
• Air pollution
• Obesity

Once you know what triggers your asthma, you can control it. Some of these tips may help.

• Wash pets once a week and keep them away from your bedroom.
• Don’t let anyone smoke in your home or car. Sit in no-smoking areas when in public places.
• Use throw rugs instead of carpets. Rugs are easier to wash.
• Clean damp areas, like bathrooms, often.
• Use air conditioning if you can. It helps remove pollen from the air.
• Cover your mouth and nose in cold weather.

Medicine can help you breathe better. Some meds are inhaled. Some are taken as pills. Your doctor will tell you what kind of medicine you should take and when. Ask your doctor to help you make an asthma care plan and see your doctor at least every six months. Click here to learn more about an Asthma Action Plan.

Physical activity can cause asthma warnings. But that doesn’t mean that people with asthma can’t be active. Here are some tips to help you workout without coughing, wheezing or feeling short of breath:

• Ask your doctor about taking medicine before you workout.
• Warm-up for about 10 minutes before your work out.
• Try not to work or play outside when the air pollution or pollen levels are high.
  If your child has asthma, be sure teachers and coaches know. Let them know what your child needs to do to control asthma.

See your doctor if you have trouble breathing when you workout, do sports, play or work hard. He or she can help you with a plan that helps you stay active.