WHAT IS ASTHMA?
Asthma is a chronic (long-lasting) lung disease. It cannot be cured - However, it can be well controlled.
- Airways are inflamed. That is, airway linings are swollen and make lots of mucus.
- Airways constrict (narrow) and breathing becomes hard. This narrowing usually gets better, sometimes by itself, and sometimes with treatment.
- Airways are super-sensitive. They react to many things, such as cigarette smoke, dust, pollen, viruses, and cold air.
What Are the Symptoms of Asthma?
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Cough
- Tightness in the chest
Not all people with asthma wheeze. For some, coughing may be the only symptom of asthma. Symptoms often occur at night or during exercise. It’s important to know that treatment can reverse asthma symptoms. It’s important to treat even mild symptoms of asthma so that they don’t get worse.
Normal Breathing
When you breathe in, air is taken in through the nose and mouth. The air goes down your windpipe and through your airways into small air sacs. When you breathe out, air leaves the lung in the opposite direction.
What Happens During an Episode of Asthma?
- The lining of the airways becomes inflamed (swollen).
- The airways produce thick mucus.
- The muscles around the airways tighten and make the airways narrower. This makes it difficult for air to get in and out of the lungs.
What Causes Asthma?
The basic cause of asthma is not yet fully known. We do know that a tendency toward asthma can run in families and that allergies to house dust mites often (but not always) play a role. We also know that asthma is not caused by emotional factors, although emotions can trigger reactions. Remember - asthma is a chronic lung disease.
What Causes (Triggers) Asthma Episodes?
People with asthma have airways that are super-sensitive to things that do not bother other people. These things are called triggers because when you are near or come in contact with them, they may start an asthma episode. Working to avoid asthma triggers is an important part of asthma management. Common triggers include:
- Dust and house dust mites
- Pollens (trees, grasses, weeds)
- Molds (indoor and outdoor)
- Pets (cats, dogs, hamsters, birds, etc.)
- Infections (colds, sinusitis)
- Cigarette smoke; wood smoke; air pollution;
- Strong odors (fresh paint, cleaners, hair sprays, etc.)
- Exercise
- Showing strong feelings (crying, laughing, emotional upset)
- Changes in weather and temperature (esp. cold air)
How are Asthma Episodes Controlled?
To control asthma episodes, you need to work out a treatment plan with your doctor. This should include:
- Recognizing when the asthma is first starting to worsen
- Treating symptoms early
- Knowing the proper role of different asthma medicines
- Knowing when a doctor’s help is needed and seeking it right away
Goals of Asthma Management:
- Be active without having asthma symptoms. This includes participating in exercise and sports.
- Prevent severe asthma attacks - avoid emergency room visits and hospitalizations
- Sleep through the night without asthma symptoms
- Have the best possible lung function (measured either in the doctor’s office or by peak flows)
- Avoid side effects from the asthma medicines
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