Asthma triggered by more than pollen

• Tweet

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill., May 13 (UPI) -- People with asthma have to watch out for more than pollen -- fruit, campfires, weather changes or insect bites can all trigger attacks, U.S. allergists warn.

Dr. James Sublett, chairman of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Public Relations Committee, said by planning ahead, seeing an allergist and knowing the causes of allergy and asthma, even those with the most sensitive noses and lungs can enjoy summer fun.

"Although symptoms may not always be severe, summertime allergies and asthma are serious and, in some cases, deadly," Sublett said in a statement.

Sublett said some surprising asthma triggers include:

-- An otherwise healthy snack can mean an oral allergy syndrome for people whose lips begin to tingle after sinking their teeth into a peach, melon, apple, celery, and other fresh fruits and vegetables.

-- Sudden changes in the weather can trigger an asthma attack.

-- Smoke is a common asthma trigger. Sit upwind of the smoke and avoid getting too close.

-- Stinging insects. It is possible to develop a life-threatening allergic reaction to the sting of yellow jackets, honey bees, wasps, hornets and fire ants. Cover up when outdoors, avoid brightly colored clothing, forget perfume and take caution when eating or drinking anything sweet.

-- Although not an allergen, the smell of chlorine from pools or hot tubs can be an irritant and cause flare-ups of either allergy-like eye and nose symptoms or asthma in some people.