According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 25 million people in the United States are affected by Asthma. It is an inflammatory condition that affects the bronchial tubes with increased production of mucus inside the tubes. Asthma sufferers may experience symptoms like coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness, pressure, or pain.

There are many well known asthma triggers that you’re already aware of, such as tobacco smoke and food additives, but there are others that aren’t so common. Here a few more bizarre asthma triggers:

1. Cockroaches
Cockroaches are icky, gross, ugly, and can even be an asthma trigger. Researchers have discovered that up to 60% of people who live in cities are allergic to these pests and it’s the allergy that specifically causes asthma. Their excrement and debris from decomposing cockroach bodies are small enough to breath into the bronchial tubes which signals a reaction in the body. To prevent an allergic reaction to cockroaches, it’s critical to remove them from your home. If you suspect you have cockroaches, consult a pest control expert or exterminator for help.

2. Dust mites
Dust mites are tiny creatures that are microscopic and live in the dust that collects around homes. While it’s not the dust mites themselves that trigger asthma, it’s their droppings that become airborne and enter the airways each time you breath. The inhaled droppings then cause an asthma attack. It’s basically an allergic reaction. To reduce your exposure by improving ventilation in your home, selecting easy to clean flooring, and by thorough house cleaning.

3. Cold air
Weather and seasons can also trigger asthma symptoms. Cold air is dry and affects the thin layer of fluid in the lungs, causing the fluid to evaporate faster than it’s replaced. Dry airways can become swollen and irritated. In cold weather, the body produces more mucus as well making it stickier and thicker than usual. This extra mucus can be irritating to the bronchial tubes. Instead of hibernating when winter comes, an asthma treatment for cold weather can include drinking extra fluids, getting a flu vaccine, and cleaning your home thoroughly.

4. Stress
Stress has a lot of negative effects on the body, but did you know that it can even trigger an asthma attack? Stress-induced asthma can cause the chest to tighten, shortness of breath, and even panic, which can cause asthma symptoms to worsen. While stress is a part of daily life and sometimes unavoidable, it’s important to learn effective relaxation techniques to reduce stress when life feels overwhelming.

5. Aspirin
Aspirin and other painkillers can bring about drug induced asthma. It is caused by a sensitivity to a group of painkillers called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDS. These drugs are used to treat pain and reduce fevers, but for an asthma sufferer it may cause a severe and potentially fatal asthma attack. These drugs should be completely avoided if you have aspirin sensitive asthma. Products with acetaminophen are considered a safer alternative, including Tylenol.

Knowing the triggers for your asthma is an integral part of developing the right asthma treatment plan with your doctor. Whether is something common on something bizarre, the only way to feel better is to be armed with the right information.