Did you know that MAY is Asthma Awareness Month?

During May, Asthma Awareness Month, take the time to learn how to control your asthma! Check out EPA's asthma related resources, publications, fact sheets and reports. You'll find information for parents, caregivers, kids and more.

Different types of Asthma.....

ALLERGIC ASTHMA

Allergic asthma is triggered by an allergic reaction to allergens such as pollen or pet dander. If you have allergic asthma, you probably have a personal and/or family history of allergies, such as allergic rhinitis or hay fever, and/or eczema (a skin problem resulting in itching, a red rash, and sometimes small blisters).
Keep in mind that one form of allergic asthma is seasonal asthma, which usually affects people in the spring or early autumn. For example, you may find that your asthma is worse in the spring when there is an increase in flowering plants, while others find their asthma is worse in the late summer or early fall due to ragweed or mold from leaves on trees.
Other triggers for allergic asthma include respiratory infections such as the common cold, the flu, or a sinus infection, as well as exercise, cold air, sudden changes in air temperature, and even gastroesophageal reflux (heartburn).

NONALLERGIC ASTHMA

Your asthma may be triggered or made worse by one or more nonallergic asthma triggers, including substances (irritants) in the air, such as tobacco smoke, wood smoke, room deodorizers, pine odors, fresh paint, household cleaning products, cooking odors, perfumes, and outdoor air pollution. People with nonallergic asthma may have the same symptoms as those with allergic asthma, but they are not bothered by allergens from the natural world like pollen or mold.
Other triggers for nonallergic asthma include respiratory infections, such as the common cold, the flu, or a sinus infection, as well as exercise, cold air, sudden changes in air temperature, and even gastroesophageal reflux (heartburn).

NOCTURNAL ASTHMA

Nocturnal asthma refers to asthma symptoms that seem worse in the middle of the night, typically between 2AM and 4AM. Interestingly, nocturnal asthma can affect someone with any type of asthma.
Factors that can cause your asthma symptoms to worsen at night may include sinus infections or postnasal drip caused by allergens such as dust mites or pet dander. Your body clock may also play some role. The body makes adrenaline and corticosteroids, which protect against asthma. Levels of these two substances are lowest between midnight and 4AM, making it more likely you will experience symptoms during these times.

ASTHMA IN PREGNANCY

Among pregnant patients who have asthma, one-third will experience improvement in their asthma, one-third will remain stable, and one-third will experience worsening of their asthma. Improved asthma control during pregnancy is associated with lower rates of pregnancy-related complications. So if you have asthma and are pregnant, talk to your doctor about what you might expect and what you can do about your asthma symptoms.

OCCUPATIONAL ASTHMA

Occupational asthma refers to asthma that is newly diagnosed and caused by exposure to a substance (chemicals or animal proteins, for example) in the workplace. If you can reduce your exposure to these triggers, you may be able to reduce your asthma symptoms. Keep in mind that occupational asthma does not refer to people already diagnosed with asthma who are more prone to flare-ups when exposed to irritant dusts or fumes in their work environment.