How to Know Your Asthma Triggers: A Guide for Australians

Asthma is a common chronic condition affecting the airways and breathing patterns of almost 2.8 million Australians. While asthma can be managed with medication, knowing what triggers your asthma can improve your life. In Australia, where the climate varies from dry deserts to humid tropics, asthma triggers can be diverse and unpredictable. 

In this article, we will explore some common asthma triggers, how to identify them, and practical steps to manage your environment. Make notes and be sure to go through your thoughts with your GP and healthcare team at your next appointment. 

 

What Are Asthma Triggers?

Asthma triggers are anything that can irritate your airways, causing symptoms like shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, or tightness in the chest. These symptoms mean your airways are narrowing restricting your ability to breathe, which can be life-threatening. While  asthma triggers are different for different people, understanding what triggers your asthma is essential to breathing well.

In Australia, certain triggers are more common due to environmental and lifestyle factors. Let’s break down some of the most prevalent asthma triggers in Australian settings.

 

Common Asthma Triggers in Australia

Seasonal Changes and Pollen Allergies

Australia is known for its diverse flora, and while beautiful, many plants produce pollen that can cause allergic reactions leading to asthma flare-ups and hay fever (allergic rhinitis) Spring in particular sees an influx of pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds.  The most common allergy for people with asthma and hay fever is pollens from grasses.  

Asthma symptoms can be onset during sudden changes in temperature or get worse in colder months due to the cold air. Be sure to understand if this is you and prepare with preventative treatment.

Tip:

If you notice more asthma symptoms during specific times of the year, particularly in spring, you might be sensitive to pollen. This Australian pollen calendar can help track high-pollen days, and staying indoors during peak times can reduce exposure. You can also download Aus Pollen apps for daily pollen counts in select locations.  

Thunderstorm Asthma

A rare but dangerous trigger in Australia is “thunderstorm asthma,” which typically occurs in spring (November) when thunderstorms sweep across pollen-heavy grassland. The storm breaks down pollen into smaller particles, making them easier to inhale and cause allergic reactions deep in the lungs. This can cause sudden, severe asthma attacks in people who may not even have a history of asthma. 

Tip:

On days when thunderstorms are predicted during pollen season, it’s best to stay indoors, close windows, and use air purifiers. Having an asthma action plan is crucial for these days. Be sure to also read this article from Asthma Australia about Thunderstorm Asthma.  

Bushfire Smoke

Bushfires are a significant concern in Australia, especially during the summer. The smoke from these fires can linger in the air and trigger asthma symptoms. The small particles in smoke can deeply penetrate the lungs, causing irritation even if you’re far from the fire itself.

Tip:

Monitor air quality during bushfire season and consider wearing a mask if you must be outdoors when smoke is present. Staying indoors and using air conditioning with clean filters can help minimise exposure.

Dust Mites

Dust mites thrive in Australia’s humid coastal areas, particularly in homes with carpeting and fabric furniture. These microscopic creatures are one of the most common indoor allergens, and their presence can significantly trigger asthma symptoms, especially if you also get hay fever

Tip:

Regularly washing bedding, using dust mite covers on pillows and mattresses, and reducing humidity in the home can help keep dust mites at bay. Vacuuming carpets frequently with a HEPA filter vacuum can also reduce the risk.

Mould

In Australia’s more humid regions or during periods of heavy rainful, mould can grow easily, especially in bathrooms, around windows and inkitchens. The spores released by mould can worsen asthma symptoms and may lead to long-term respiratory issues if not addressed. 

Tip:

Controlling moisture in the home is key to preventing mould. Ensure that rooms are well ventilated and use dehumidifiers in humid areas. It is also helpful to clean surfaces prone to mould regularly. For helpful tips on mould removal, download this fact sheet from Asthma Australia. 

Pet Dander

Australians love their pets, but pet dander (skin flakes, hair, and saliva) is a common asthma trigger. Even if your pet stays outdoors, allergens can easily make their way inside on clothing or through open doors. 

Tip:

If pets are a trigger, consider keeping them out of bedrooms or areas where you spend a lot of time. Regularly washing your pet’s bedding and vacuuming floors can also reduce dander in your home. 

 

How to Identify Your Specific Triggers

The key to managing asthma is recognising what affects you individually. Here are steps you can take to identify and confirm your asthma triggers, so you can discuss them with your GP, and make adjustments to your asthma management plan: 

Keep an Asthma Diary

Record daily asthma symptoms, including the time of day and any relevant environmental factors (e.g., weather conditions, presence of animals, exposure to smoke). Over time, patterns will emerge that can point to specific triggers. 

Use an Asthma Management App

Technology can assist in identifying asthma triggers. There are several apps designed to help people with asthma monitor their symptoms and track environmental data like pollen counts and air quality. The Smart Asthma app, for example, links to devices like Smart Peak Flow and provides real-time insights into your lung function. 

Allergy Testing

Consult your doctor about allergy testing to confirm any suspected environmental allergens. These tests can identify whether things like pollen, dust mites, or mould are causing your asthma to flare up. 

Peak Flow Monitoring

Using a peak flow meter can help you assess how well your lungs are functioning. By tracking your peak flow over time, you can pinpoint if specific activities or environments lead to decreased lung function and increased asthma symptoms. 

Shop the Smart Peak Flow device

Practical Tips for Managing Triggers

Once you’ve identified your triggers, you can take steps to reduce exposure and prevent symptoms from worsening. 

Asthma Action Plan

Every person with asthma should have a personalised asthma management plan. This document, created with your GP and healthcare team, outlines steps to take when asthma symptoms worsen. Ensure your plan includes specific actions for different triggers. Also be sure to check you are using your preventative and reliever medication correctly, visit here. 

Medication Management

For many people with asthma, the right preventer inhaler taken as prescribed can greatly reduce risk of getting asthma symptoms. Preventative inhalers help keep your airways in good condition so they don’t react as severely to asthma triggers.  While relievers act in the moment to relieve asthma symptoms. Relievers are emergency medicines while preventers treat the underlying cause of asthma. . Always carry your reliever inhaler, especially if you expect exposure to a known trigger. If you don’t have a preventer, be sure to talk to your doctor. 

Improve Indoor Air Quality

The health of our indoor air quality can really impact our health.  One in three Australians get worse asthma symptoms when they are at home.  There are many things that you can do at home to reduce your exposure to triggers. If you have a gas cooktop, be sure to ventilate or use a rangehood flued to the outside when cooking. Consider an air purifier, especially in rooms where you spend the most time, like the bedroom. Reducing the concentration of allergens like pollen, pet dander, or mould spores can make a significant difference. View this helpful guide.  

Consider Lifestyle Adjustments

Sometimes, small lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of asthma flare-ups. For example:

• If smoke from bushfires is a concern, limit outdoor activities during fire season.
• In spring, avoid outdoor exercise during high pollen days.
• Ensure proper ventilation in humid areas to minimise mould growth. 

 

Empowering Yourself to Manage Asthma

Understanding and managing asthma triggers can improve your quality of life. By staying informed about what triggers your symptoms and taking proactive steps to reduce exposure, you can keep asthma under control and continue to enjoy the Australian lifestyle. 

If you haven’t yet identified all your asthma triggers, work closely with your doctor or asthma specialist to develop a tailored approach to managing your condition. Remember, knowledge is power when it comes to asthma management! If you have more questions and want to discuss your asthma, book a free consultation with Asthma Australia’s Asthma Educators here.