WHAT IS ASTHMA?
Asthma is a chronic lung disease that can be successfully controlled with proper care. Common symptoms include coughing, chest tightness, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Five steps people with asthma can take to help stay healthy and lead fully active lives:
Signs and Symptoms of Asthma:
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Shortness of breath
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Wheezing
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Tightness in the chest
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Cough lasting more than a week
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Recurrent night cough
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Frequent respiratory infection
What happens during an episode of asthma:
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The lining of the airways becomes swollen
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The airways produce a thick mucous
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The muscles around the airways tighten and make the airways narrower
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These changes in the airways block the flow of air, making it hard to breathe
Asthma Triggers
People with asthma have "triggers". Triggers can be different for each person with asthma. Triggers provoke asthma symptoms, or make asthma worse. Controlling exposure to triggers can help keep someone with asthma well. The following is a list of common asthma triggers:
Allergens
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Dust Mites
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Pets: dog, cat, rabbit, birds, rats, horses
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Pollen from trees, grass, weeds
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Molds
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Cockroaches
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Rodents and their droppings
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Food: Peanuts, eggs, strawberries etc.
Irritants
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Perfume
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Hairspray
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Paint fumes
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Cleaning products
Illness
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Colds
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Influenza (flu)
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Sinus infection
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Other respiratory illnesses
Smoke-related Irritants
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Cigarette smoke
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Cigar smoke
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Pipe smoke
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Wild fires
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Wood burning
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Car exhaust
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Air pollution
Changes in Weather
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Snow
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Wind
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Extreme cold
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Extreme heat
Strong Emotions
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Anger
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Anxiety
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Upset
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Fear
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Excitement
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Sadness
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Laughter
Asthma Resources
