What is the definition of an irritant in relation to asthma?

In the context of asthma, an irritant is defined as a substance that irritates the lungs and can trigger asthma symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest tightness. These irritants may include pollutants, smoke, strong odors, and chemicals that can provoke an inflammatory response in the airways. Unlike allergens, which specifically provoke an immune response in susceptible individuals, irritants can affect anyone by causing direct damage or irritation to respiratory tissues.

The focus is on how these irritants can aggravate an existing asthma condition or induce symptoms in individuals with asthma, highlighting the importance of minimizing exposure to known irritants for effective asthma management.