Asthma and You

Asthma is a breathing disease. When an asthma attack occurs, the bronchial tubes leading to the lungs are narrowed by spasm, swelling and mucus, all of which cause difficulty breathing.

Untreated asthma can cause permanent scarring of the lungs, chronic breathing problems, and possibly death.

Asthma symptoms are usually triggered by something that is bothering the lungs. It can be controlled by understanding triggers and limiting exposure.

Here are some common triggers that may cause an asthma attack:

• Allergies to pollens, mold, pets, and other environmental conditions
• Pollutants in the air such as tobacco smoke, ozone, and traffic fumes
• Emotions including fear, crying and laughing
• Exercise, especially when it leads to overexertion or in cold weather
• Household irritants including dust, cleaning products, and perfume
• Illnesses such as colds or respiratory infections
• Medications, including some over-the-counter pain relievers
• Weather, particularly wind and cold air

Asthma's long-term complications can usually be averted if patients and their health care providers manage the disease effectively. Proper diagnosis, correct use of medications, and avoidance of triggers are a few of the ways to manage your asthma.