The airways collapse and trap air in the lungs. Wheezing, the sound of air being forced through the narrow bronchi, occurs. Common Asthma Triggers Allergens Things to which a person is allergic, or allergens, can include inhaled substances such as molds, pollen, house dust, and animal hair and dander. People with allergic asthma often have a personal or family history of other allergic diseases, such as hay fever or eczema. For a person who has asthma, cigarette smoking or secondhand smoke can trigger an asthma attack.
Cigarette smoking can also raise the risk of developing asthma.
Because of continuous exposure, children of smokers are at increased risk of developing asthma. A respiratory infection can result in a series of episodes that lasts for weeks. Most people with asthma are susceptible to the trigger of exercise, particularly in a cold climate. Exercise-induced attacks usually peak shortly after exercising and end quickly. The most common medication that is a trigger is aspirin.