Cockroaches are also major asthma triggers and may reduce lung function even in people without a history of asthma. It is likely that the two conditions have a common cause rather than one causing the other. Pollution and Cigarette Smoking. Air pollution has been associated with the development of asthma and asthma-related hospitalization. Specific pollutants targeted for their role in triggering asthma include diesel fumes, sulfur dioxide from power and paper industries, and nitrogen dioxide from exhaust and gas ovens.
Cigarette smoke can accelerate the decline in lung function related to asthma.
Studies also show that even exposure to secondhand smoke can double the risk of asthma-related emergency room visits. Contrary to what many believe, dairy products do not appear to exacerbate asthma symptoms in people who are not already allergic to them. Cold air, thunderstorms, and extreme emotion are also known to aggravate asthma symptoms. Certain medications can trigger asthma attacks, such as aspirin and beta-blockers. About one third of all persons with asthma share the problem with another member of their immediate family.