Asthma Causes: Understanding Risk Factors and Triggers

Possible causes of asthma:

1. Genetics: Family history increases likelihood; specific genes identified.
2. Allergies: Pollen, dust mites, pet dander, certain foods trigger symptoms in susceptible individuals.
3. Irritants: Smoke, pollution, chemicals, strong odors trigger attacks.
4. Infections: Respiratory infections, especially in childhood, increase asthma risk.
5. Obesity: Overweight/obesity associated with increased risk and worsened symptoms.
6. Exercise: Exercise-induced asthma in some, more common with underlying asthma.
7. Hormonal changes: Women may have worse symptoms during menstrual cycle, pregnancy, menopause.
8. Acid reflux: GERD (stomach acid backflow) can trigger asthma symptoms.
9. Stress: Doesn't directly cause asthma but worsens symptoms and makes management harder.