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Key Information:

If you have asthma, your airways are sensitive. Think of your triggers as “sparks” that can set off your symptoms.

Everyone’s triggers are different.

The key to good asthma control is knowing your personal triggers and having a plan to manage them.

Common Triggers and Solutions

1. Colds and Flu

  • The Trigger: Respiratory infections are one of the most common causes of asthma flare-ups.
  • The Solution: The single best protection is vaccination. Ensure you get your free annual flu vaccine and any COVID-19 boosters you are eligible for.

2. Cold Weather

  • The Trigger: Breathing in cold, dry air can be a powerful “spark” for symptoms.
  • The Solution: Loosely wrap a scarf over your nose and mouth before you go outside. This warms the air up before you breathe it into your sensitive lungs.

3. Allergies

  • The Trigger: Common allergens include pollen (hay fever), dust mites, or pet dander.
  • The Solution:
  • Pollen: Check the pollen forecast daily during spring and summer.
  • Dust: Use allergen-proof bedding and damp-dust your home regularly to stop dust from flying into the air.

Identifying Your Sparks

Because everyone is different, we recommend keeping a Symptom Diary.

  • Record: Note down when your symptoms happen and what you were doing or where you were.
  • Spot Patterns: Over time, you will see patterns (eg “I always cough when I visit my friend with a cat” or “I wheeze when I run in the cold”).

What Happens Next?

If you are identifying new triggers or finding that your current medication is not managing them well, please let us know.

Discuss Your Asthma

Further Information

Asthma Diagnosis: Connecting the Dots

Updating Asthma Care: The “2-in-1” Approach

Asthma Attack: Emergency Safety Plans

Winter-Proofing Your Asthma: 3 Steps to Stay Well

For more information about asthma, including symptoms, treatment and living with asthma, please visit the NHS website.

Learn more about asthma

Last reviewed: 06 April 2026
Next review due: 06 April 2029