factors or "triggers.'' These vary widely among asthma sufferers. An important step in gaining control of your asthma is to discover what factors, or combination of factors, trigger asthma attacks.

Triggers include: Allergies: While the list of these is endless, common culprits are tiny particles, including pollens and mould spores, which get into the air from trees, plants, hay, animal skin, hair, feathers (including wool clothing and feather pillows), dust mites. Insect parts, such as particles from dead cockroaches, are a major problem.

Asthma can be caused by allergies to food such as nuts, chocolate, eggs, orange juice, fish or milk.

Sensitivity to certain substances, such as sulphites (a preservative sprayed on or added to fresh fruits and vegetables), shellfish, beer and wine can also cause asthma. Aspirin is a another chemical trigger, as are:.

Household products: Homes are loaded with irritating products which must be avoided. These include breathing vapours from cleaning solvents, paint and paint thinner, and liquid chlorine bleach; furniture polish and spray starch.

Personal products: Common troublemakers are spray deodorants, perfumes, hair sprays, talcum powder and scented cosmetics.

Dust: If you have severe reactions to household dust, avoid household furnishings which raise dust when used, such as draw drapes and cloth-upholstered furniture. Use a damp cloth when dusting. Damp mop floors instead of sweeping. Leave the room when a vacuum cleaner is being used. Clean filters on air conditioners. Remove draperies, carpeting, knick-knacks and other dust collectors from the bedroom.

Weather: Breathing very cold or extra humid air can affect some asthma sufferers. Notice how weather changes affect you and discuss with your doctor.

Seasonal triggers: These include pollens and mould spores, summer heat, humidity or air pollution, home humidifiers which use a basin of standing water. These circulate mould spores throughout the house.

Air pollution mean dirt and vapours are added to the air you breathe. Avoid places with very dirty air, such as traffic jams, parking garages, dusty work areas, smoke-filled rooms. Smoke is a powerful trigger. Avoid breathing all smoke, be it from tobacco, incinerators or fires. Ask smokers to respect your need for clean air.

During heavy pollution, stay in with air conditioning. Avoid heavy work or dust-raising activities.

Exercise: Over-exertion -- running upstairs too fast, carrying heavy loads, jogging, cycling, or playing team sports can affect some asthma suffers. Your goal should be to lead a normal life, and exercise is important for your lungs and general health. Consult your doctor about taking medicine in advance of exercise to prevent attacks; adjust your pace, take stairs more slowly, or try a different sport. Swimming works especially well for many asthma sufferers.

Infections: Colds and infections make asthma worse. Virus infections are known triggers. Consult your doctor about 'flu/pneumonia injections; keep your body healthy with daily exercise, nourishing food and adequate rest. Keep lungs as clear of mucus as you can. Drink enough fluids.

Nighttime asthma is common and responds to normal treatment. May be prevented by taking medicine before bedtime. Consult your doctor about nighttime asthma management.

Emotions: Strong emotions can affect anyone's breathing. Troublemakers for some asthma suffers include: laughing, crying, yelling, fear; anger and frustration with asthma, causing the sufferer to refuse to take preventive medicines. Learn how to prevent and gain control of asthma attacks. When excited, make an effort to breathe slowly and deeply. Consult your doctor about taking extra medicine when under severe stress.