10 unconventional triggers of allergies/asthma

Sufferers of asthma or allergies are familiar with the usual suspects triggering symptoms of coughing, difficulty breathing, fast heart rate or throat irritation.  Triggers often suspected include pet dander, mold, and pollen.  But, other less-suspecting culprits can also be at fault. Here is a list of 10 possible allergy/asthma offenders that may be the real blame for your flare-ups:

1.  Swimming pools

Probably not first on your list of an allergy trigger, but the chlorine used in swimming pools can cause sensitivity in some people.  Though it’s not considered a true allergy, chlorine can result in a skin rash, especially if you spend a lot of time in chlorinated pools and hot tubs.  The symptoms often mimic asthma so it’s best to spend less time in chlorinated water and a little more time staying dry.

2.  Spices

Spices have been known to cause allergic type reactions. Although used to add that extra punch of flavor, spices such as cinnamon, garlic, cumin, and cardamom (cinnamon and garlic are more common triggers of allergic reactions) can also set off an allergic reaction.  Besides knowing what spices are in your food, these culinary delicacies can also be found in cosmetics such as makeup that could flare an allergic reaction.

3.  Wine

Sorry wine lovers, but many people are allergic to sulfites, a food additive, found in wine.  People sensitive to this chemical may find themselves having an asthma attack when exposed to sulfites.  Nitrates are another food additive commonly found in meats.  Nitrates can cause a person to break out with itchy hives. 

4.  Paint

If you have a paint project coming up and have allergies or asthma, beware.  The fumes from paint can trigger asthma and allergy attacks.  To protect yourself from this possibility, look for “green paint” logos that identify paints with low or no volatile organic compounds.  You can also find these paints and other products that have been certified by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.  

5.  Pain relievers

Generally, most people with asthma can tolerate pain relievers such as aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) if used for aches and pains such as headaches or backaches.  But around 3% to 5% of people with asthma have “aspirin-sensitive” asthma which means if they take that medication or an NSAID, it could trigger a severe asthma attack.  A safe option for pain is acetaminophen.  But anyone who is aspirin-sensitive, should also consult with their doctor of what is safe for them.

6.  Fruit

If certain fruits such as apples, pears, bananas, or peaches cause you to have an itchy mouth and scratchy throat, you may have oral allergy syndrome.  Those who have allergy problems with ragweed or grass pollen, can also have an allergic reaction to those foods.  Usually if the food is cooked, a person should not experience a reaction.  However, if the allergy is becoming worse, check with an allergist for testing.

7.  Air fresheners

For some, the fresh scent of an air freshener can send them wheezing and sneezing.  No matter if it is a spray used to freshen up a room, a fresh scent strip used in a car, or even lighting candles, those with allergies will need to avoid these special scents as much as possible.

8.  Wood smoke

Everyone loves the smell of a wood burning fireplace, but not if you have asthma or an allergy.  As cozy, warm, and inviting as a fireplace can be, there are dozens of irritants and gases that can set off allergies and asthma.  The American Lung Association advises against using traditional fireplaces and recommends switching to gas or propane. 

9.  Remodeling

When remodeling a home, many of the materials used such as plaster, drywall, manufactured wood, vinyl floors, paints, and wallpaper, can release volatile compounds.  To help reduce these allergy/asthma triggering substances, it helps to hang plastic sheeting to shield the rest of the home from the area being remolded.  Once the project is done, it helps to air out the remodeled space for several weeks afterwards. 

10.  Christmas trees

A live Christmas tree may set the mood for the holidays but they can also set up triggers for allergies.  Since live trees come from outside, allergens such as fertilizer, pollen, and mold build up on them.  The best way to avoid allergy/asthma issues is to go with an artificial Christmas.  From their realistic look to their no fuss with needle cleanup or having to water, artificial trees will make your holiday season allergy free.