Asthma is a disease affecting the airways (breathing tubes) leading to the air sacs in the lungs. The inner lining of these tubes become narrowed by swelling and increased mucous production. In addition, small muscles surrounding the tubes may spasm and also interfere with the flow of air.
Why does this happen?
People with asthma have breathing tubes which are hyper-responsive. This medical term means that they are unusually sensitive to triggers that don't bother most people. Children can understand that they have "twitchy tubes" but often ask "why does this happen to me?"
We know the most common triggers to asthma are:
• Allergies: Pollen (trees, grasses, weeds), animal danders, mold, and dust mite.
• Infections: Viral head and chest colds, sinus and ear infections, bronchitis.
• Exercise: Especially vigorous sports such as running or cycling.
• Irritants: Tobacco smoke exposure, pollution, wood smoke, cold air, humidity
What are the symptoms of asthma?
You may hear a high pitched sound coming from your chest called wheezing, along with a sensation of tightness and difficulty breathing. A cough may also occur, especially at night, after exercise, or in cold air. For some, cough is the only symptom of asthma.
Although asthma cannot be cured, it can certainly be controlled. This begins with identifying triggers and forming an asthma treatment plan.
