Asthmagen
Asthmagen is a term used to describe any substance that can trigger an asthma attack or exacerbate the symptoms of asthma. Asthmagens can be found in a variety of environments and can be both natural and man-made.
Types of Asthmagens[edit | edit source]
Asthmagens can be broadly classified into two categories: allergenic asthmagens and non-allergenic asthmagens.
Allergenic Asthmagens[edit | edit source]
Allergenic asthmagens are substances that cause an allergic reaction in the body, leading to an asthma attack. These can include:
- Pollen: Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds can trigger asthma symptoms in some people.
- Dust mites: These microscopic creatures live in household dust and can trigger asthma attacks.
- Mold spores: Mold spores can be inhaled and trigger asthma symptoms.
- Animal dander: Dander from pets can also trigger asthma symptoms.
Non-Allergenic Asthmagens[edit | edit source]
Non-allergenic asthmagens are substances that can trigger an asthma attack without causing an allergic reaction. These can include:
- Tobacco smoke: Secondhand smoke is a major non-allergenic asthmagen.
- Air pollution: Pollutants in the air, such as ozone and particulate matter, can trigger asthma symptoms.
- Chemicals: Certain chemicals, including those used in cleaning products, can trigger asthma symptoms.
Prevention and Management[edit | edit source]
Avoiding exposure to asthmagens is a key part of managing asthma. This can involve:
- Using air filters to reduce the amount of allergens in the home.
- Avoiding outdoor activities when pollen counts are high.
- Not allowing smoking inside the home.
- Using non-toxic cleaning products.
In addition to avoidance, medications such as bronchodilators and corticosteroids can be used to manage asthma symptoms.
See Also[edit | edit source]
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD