ASTHMA

What Is Asthma?

You may not think of asthma as a killer disease. Yet more than 5,000 Americans die of asthma each year. Asthma also accounts for more than 400,000 hospital discharges annually.

Asthma is a chronic condition that occurs when the main air passages of your lungs, the bronchial tubes, become inflamed. The muscles of the bronchial walls tighten and extra mucus is produced, causing your airways to narrow. This can lead to everything from minor wheezing to severe difficulty in breathing. In some cases, your breathing may be so labored an asthma attack becomes life-threatening.

Yet asthma is a treatable disease, and most flare-ups and deaths can be prevented. In the past 20 years, scientists have gained a better understanding of asthma's cause. New drugs have been developed to replace standard medications. Greater emphasis also is now put on managing your own condition, much as people manage their diabetes with insulin. Together, you and your doctor can work to gain control over your symptoms, reduce the risk of severe attacks and help maintain a normal life.

Signs and Symptoms
Causes
Risk Factors
When to Seek Medical Advice
Screening and Diagnosis
Complications
Treatment
Prevention
Self Care
Coping Skills