Causes of Asthmatic Attacks Asthmatic attacks result from allergy-producing substances, respiratory infections or emotional stress. Allergy-producing substances, known as allergens, are most commonly from pollen or mold produced in the spring and summer. Other allergens include dust, food, animal dander and drugs. Respiratory infections cause about 40 percent of asthmatic attacks. The greatest number of attacks occur during winter when people are prone to respiratory infections.
Emotional stress triggers up to one-third of all asthmatic attacks.
Family or job-related problems may provoke an attack. Prevention Try to eliminate the source of irritants. For example, if the cause of asthma is animal dander, a family pet may be the cause. If this is so, it may be necessary to find a new home for the bird or animal. If dust is the offender, you can take many steps to make your home as dust-free as possible.