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FAQs
No, asthma is non-contagious, meaning it cannot be spread from person to person.1
It is more likely in people with other allergic conditions, such as eczema and hay fever. Asthma is also more likely if other family members also have asthma, especially if they are immediate family members, such as a parent or sibling.1
Being overweight or obese has been associated with a greater risk of asthma in both children and adults. Other factors, including having a low weight at birth, being premature, viral respiratory infections, and having exposures to tobacco smoke and air pollution, can also affect asthma risk.1
Allergens and irritants in the environment are felt to increase the risk for asthma, including air pollution, dust mites, mold, and exposure to chemicals, fumes or dust.1
No, asthma cannot be cured, however, treatments for asthma can help control symptoms so you can remain active.1
Avoiding triggers, taking medications as prescribed and following your Asthma Action Plan are steps that you can take to help keep your asthma from getting worse. An Asthma Action Plan is a tool that you complete with your health care provider that uses daily symptoms and/or peak flow meter readings to guide when to take medication, as well as when to call your health care provider or go to the emergency department.1-3
There are various common triggers for asthma, including:4
- Indoor allergens, such as dust mites, mold, and pet dander or fur
- Outdoor allergens, such as pollens and mold
- Emotional stress, such as intense anger, crying, or laughing
- Physical activity
- Infections, such as colds, influenza (flu), or COVID-19
- Certain medicines, such as aspirin, which may cause serious breathing problems in people with severe asthma
- Poor air quality or very cold air
- Strong soaps and purfume1
References
- World Health Organization (WHO). Asthma. 5/4/23. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/asthma
- American Lung Association (ALA). Create an Asthma Action Plan. Last updated 6/21/23. https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/asthma/managing-asthma/create-an-asthma-action-plan
- American Lung Association (ALA). My Asthma Action Plan. 9/2022. https://www.lung.org/getmedia/dc79f142-a963-47bc-8337-afe3c3e87734/FY22-ALA-Asthma-Action-Plan-with-QR-codes.pdf
- National Institutes of Health (NIH). National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). Asthma: Causes and triggers. Last updated 3/24/22. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/asthma/causes Â
