CKS is no longer commissioned by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE). NICE remains committed to providing a replacement service for CKS and is currently reviewing its options. In the meantime, although CKS content is now not being maintained, it still remains relevant and will continue to be made available. CKS content was generated under a programme of topic creation and update. To check if the topic you are viewing is current or out of date, please refer to the topic publication details by clicking on the 'How up-to-date is this topic?' link in the left hand menu on individual topic pages.
Asthma - Making a diagnosis
What are the trigger factors?
- Respiratory infections, most commonly viruses. Fungi, bacteria, or parasites may be responsible in some people.
- Allergens, such as pollen, dust mites, and feathered or furry animals.
- Airborne irritants, such as cigarette smoke, irritant dusts, cold air, vapours and fumes, atmospheric pollution.
- Weather changes, such as cold air.
- Exercise.
- Emotional factors, such as stress or laughing.
- Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease.
- Allergic rhinitis and sinusitis.
- Occupational sensitizers, such as isocyanates.
- Drugs, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and beta-blockers.
- Foods containing sulphites, such as beer, wine, and shrimps.
[GINA, 2006; SIGN and BTS, 2009]
© NHS Institute for Innovation and Improvement