From a simple cold to hormones
Colds & viral infections
Colds and
viral infections are very common triggers of
asthma. They are also almost impossible to avoid. At your asthma review you should talk to your doctor or asthma nurse about having the flu vaccination. These are normally available every autumn. People who are regularly taking steroid tablets should also talk to their doctor about having the pneumococcal vaccination. Unlike the flu vaccination, which should be repeated every year, the
pneumococcal vaccination is usually only given once. Flu and pneumococcal injections are also recommended for everyone over the age of 65.
Emotions
Stress or even a fit of laughter can trigger
asthma symptoms, as can other situations such as
depression, financial problems, bereavement and extreme work-related stress. Monitoring your condition and taking your medicine regularly should help to minimise symptoms. Talk to your doctor or asthma nurse if you are going through a difficult time and feel you need more suppor
Food
Most people with
asthma do not have to follow a special diet. In some cases, certain foods including cow’s milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, yeast products, nuts, and some food colourings and preservatives, can make symptoms worse. If you think you have a
food allergy, contact your doctor or asthma nurse for further advice.
Hormones
Some women find their
asthma can be affected around puberty, before their periods, during
pregnancy and during
menopause. If your asthma gets worse around these times, see your doctor or asthma nurse so that you can discuss any changes to your medicines that may help.
