Asthma Basics
What is Asthma?
- Chronic inflammatory disease of the airways
- An obstruction of airflow
- An increased sensitivity of the airways
- Disease that cannot be cured, but can be controlled
Causes of Asthma?
- Exact cause - still unknown
- Genetics – if other family members have asthma, development is
more likely
- Early exposure – exposure to tobacco smoke, infections and
allergens at a young age increases the chance of developing asthma
Symptoms of Asthma
- Intermittent cough
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
- Severity and frequency differ
Triggers of Asthma
- Exercise – may be the only cause for some people
- Viral infections
- Tobacco smoke - #1 preventable asthma trigger
- Strong odors
- Extreme temperature changes
- Air pollution
- Emotions - crying, laughing, stress
- Animal dander - skin, hair, feathers
- Cockroaches
- Dust mites - found in dust
- Mold
- Pollen
Removing/eliminating the trigger can drastically reduce asthma symptoms
and severity.
Basic Asthma Management
- Take prescribed medication
- Develop an asthma action plan with your physician and follow it
- Avoid asthma triggers
- Get an annual influenza vaccination
- Flu
Clinic Locator - Influenza or "the flu" is not
merely the common cold, but a serious respiratory illness. The flu
season can begin as early as October, and last well into
springtime. The best way to reduce the effects of influenza is
through annual vaccination.
- Good communication between parents/guardians, physicians and
teachers/care provides is essential in providing effective asthma
management
All external hyperlinks are provided for
your information and for the benefit of the general public. The Department
of Health and Family Services does not testify to, sponsor, or endorse the
accuracy of the information provided on externally linked pages.
back to Asthma
Home Page
Date Last Revised: May 06, 2008 |
