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An asthma trigger is a factor that can lead to sudden difficulty breathing or other symptoms of asthma (asthma attack).
Some triggers are substances a person may be allergic to (allergens). Allergens cause the body's natural defenses (immune system) to produce chemicals called immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies. These chemicals bind to allergens, causing inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to the lungs. The allergen may also cause asthma attacks. These triggers include:
Other triggers can cause asthma symptoms without affecting the body's immune system. These include:
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Other Works Consulted Guarnieri M, Balmes JR (2014). Outdoor air pollution and asthma. Lancet, 383(9928): 1581–1592. DOI 10.1016/S0140-6736(14)60617-6. Accessed May 6, 2014.
Current as of: February 24, 2020
Author: Healthwise StaffMedical Review: John Pope MD - PediatricsE. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal MedicineAdam Husney MD - Family MedicineMary F. McNaughton Collins MD, MPH - Internal Medicine
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Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:John Pope MD - Pediatrics & E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Mary F. McNaughton Collins MD, MPH - Internal Medicine
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