What is Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic disease that affects your lungs and makes it difficult for you to breath.

What happens when you have Asthma?

When you have Asthma, your lungs are red and swollen. A sticky substance called mucus is produced in large amounts, which clogs the walls inside your lungs, making it hard to breathe.

Is there a known cause of Asthma?

There is really no known cause of Asthma, but what is known is that there are things that can trigger Asthma.

What are some of the common triggers of Asthma?

Some of the most common triggers are things that people are exposed to every day, like dust in our homes, for example. Other triggers include tobacco smoke, ragweed, pet dander (dead skin flakes an animal sheds), cockroaches, weather conditions (high humidity, high temperatures, very cold temperatures), and exercise.  Infections (common cold and the flu) can also trigger Asthma symptoms.

Does Asthma stop and start? Or is it something that is always there?

One of the common beliefs about Asthma is that it is something that a person gets, and then it goes away. No, this is not true. The underlying parts of the disease, especially the inflammation, can be there, even in the absence of symptoms.

Are there any lifestyle changes that I can make to prevent or reduce Asthma symptoms?

Yes. Try to avoid triggers and see your doctor regularly to discuss how to control your Asthma.

How is Asthma treated?

In addition to avoiding triggers, your doctor will prescribe a medication treatment plan that meets your needs.

To find out more about Asthma you can visit the websites listed below:

• www.cdc.gov/asthma/faqs.htm
• http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/common/asthma/medications/665.printerview.html
• http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/asthma/DS00021/DSECTION=2