It is important to identify those things that bring on your child's asthma attacks. Avoiding these 'triggers' can prevent flare-ups and improve control.

Allergy

• Allergy to pollens is very common in spring. You can reduce pollen exposure by closing windows and staying indoors on windy or high pollen count days. 
• House dust and house dust mites cause many asthma attacks. The mites live in carpets, beds, soft furnishings and clothes and can be controlled by some simple strategies. Ask your doctor.
• Pets are a common trigger for asthma in children. It is best to avoid close contact with pets, keep them out of the child's bedroom and preferably out of the house.
• Food allergies cause asthma in some children, especially peanuts, shellfish, eggs and dairy foods. Reactions usually occur within minutes and are often severe. 
• Certain medicines can also trigger asthma attacks, such as ibuprofen (a pain killer), aspirin, royal jelly and echinacea.

Infection

Colds and flus are one of the most common triggers. Flu vaccines are not routinely advised for kids with asthma.

Exercise

At least 80% of asthmatics have symptoms triggered by exercise (EIA), especially in cold or dry air. Swimming is less likely to bring on attacks. Reliever medication beforehand will usually prevent EIA.

Stress

Stress, anxiety, laughing and crying can bring on asthma attacks.

Cigarette smoking

Exposure to smoke is a common trigger in children. Parents should not smoke in the house or car or during pregnancy.

Ask your doctor for more details or visit http://www.asthmaaustralia.org.au/.