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Living with asthma

Research has shown something things that make a person more likely to get asthma.

  • Family history: If people in your family have an allergic disease like asthma, hay fever (allergic rhinitis), or eczema, there is a higher chance you will have asthma.
  • Stuff inside the air we breathe can make you more likely to get asthma:
    • Second-hand smoke: Kids whose mothers smoked while pregnant, who grew up in a smoky house are more likely to get asthma.
    • Air pollution indoors and out: research has shown people who live near major highways and other polluted places are more likely to get asthma. Children who grow up in homes with mould or dust are also more likely to get asthma. 
    • Work environment (occupational asthma): People who work in certain types of jobs can get asthma from the things they work with. Learn more about work-related asthma.

Because many triggers can be found in workplaces, it is common for people with asthma to have worst symptoms at work. It is important for you to understand your asthma triggers and know how to manage your asthma.