The factors that exacerbate asthma attack are called triggers. Recognizing and avoiding those triggers is important in controlling asthma flare-ups. Common triggers are classified in several categories:

* Allergens (dust, grass, pollens, animals)
* Viral Infection that cause cold symptoms.
* Irritants (like smoke or perfume sprays)
* Physical activity or sports

One of the best ways to identify asthma triggers is to pay careful attention to the pattern of asthma symptoms. For example, if symptoms occur primarily at home, something in that environment may be involved. If symptoms flare in the spring or fall, an outdoor allergy is more likely to blame.

Using blood tests or skin tests can provide additional information about possible asthma triggers by determining if a person is sensitive (or allergic) to a particular substance.

After recognizing possible asthma triggers, the parent and doctor should develop a plan to control the triggers. You have following options

* Avoid the trigger completely. Wherever possible, kids should avoid the exposure to the triggers (for example limit exposure to cigarette smoke, get rid of the carpets from bedrooms, do not let your pets to sleep in the lid’s room).
* Minimise the exposure to the trigger if you can not avoid it completely.
* If exposure to a trigger can be anticipated, talk to your physician about taking an extra dose of medicine prior to exposure to the trigger.
* Immunotherapy (allergy shots) is generally the last resort but very helpful. Children who have continued problems in spite of the measures to avoid triggers may benefit from seeing an allergist (specialist in allergies).
* Exercise is probably an exception to rule about trigger avoidance. Exercise is actually befecial for children with asthma. An asthma action plan should include recommendations to avoid asthma exacerbations and treat exercise-related symptoms.