Asthma is no longer just about dust and pollution: Doctor warns stress, poor sleep and modern lifestyles are triggering more attacks

Asthma has long been associated with familiar triggers such as dust, pollen, seasonal changes, infections, and air pollution. But pulmonologists are now noticing a shift. More patients are reporting breathing difficulties, wheezing, chest tightness, and asthma flare-ups during periods of emotional stress, poor sleep, work pressure, and unhealthy lifestyle habits.The change reflects the realities of modern living. Longer work hours, constant screen exposure, reduced physical activity, rising anxiety levels, and urban lifestyles are creating conditions that can make airways more sensitive and reactive. While stress does not directly cause asthma in every individual, it can significantly worsen symptoms and increase the frequency of attacks in people who are already vulnerable.According to the World Health Organization (WHO), asthma affects hundreds of millions of people globally and remains one of the most common chronic respiratory diseases.