Definition: Irritants are substances that trigger asthma symptoms when they are inhaled by sensitive people. They are different from allergens, in that they do not trigger the allergic response from the immune system. But they do irritate the nose, mouth, and airways. Examples are chemical fumes, strong odors, and tobacco or wood smoke.
Pronunciation: EAR-ih-tint
Also Known As: triggers
Examples: Susan was unable to clean using ammonia-based products, because the fumes were an irritant that would set off her asthma symptoms.
