Chemicals are a common reason for occupational asthma however they are also found in the home. Carbon monoxide from fires, sulphur dioxide in foods, formaldehyde in chipboard furniture, being surrounded by smokers and eating chemicals put on fruit all add to the problem.

Even the chemical propellant in your inhaler can trigger an attack. If you notice an increase in asthma symptoms on a regular basis within five or ten minutes of taking your puffer ask your doctor about getting a different type.

As it is impossible for asthma sufferers to avoid most of the things that trigger their asthma, correct asthma management is vital to controlling asthma.