What are some things that can make asthma worse?

Many things: In the short term asthma can be worsened with respiratory illness and irritants such as smoke/dust, allergy, and exercise. Long term asthma typically can be more difficult to control as the airways of the lung are slowly becoming smaller. Other concerns would be chronic or prolonged exposure to coal dust and /or chemicals found in some work place environments. And one's genetics can be a factor.

More causes: In addition to the exacerbating factors already mentioned: in some women, the menstrual period; Aspirin and NSAID in up to 20% of adults; acid reflux from the stomach. In some patients, sulfites, present in red wine, packages of dried fruit and in salads and restaurants. Poorly controlled allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, exposure to pets, cigarette and marijuana smoke are major problems.