Asthma
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the bronchial tubes or airways making breathing difficult. The airways are the tubes that carry air in and out of your lungs. If you have asthma, the inside walls of your airways are inflamed (swollen). The inflammation makes the airways very sensitive, and they tend to react strongly to things that you are allergic to or find irritating. When the airways react, they get narrower, and less air flows through to your lung tissue.

Symptoms include:

• Chest tightness
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Coughing

The symptoms come and go and are caused when muscle spasms close down the bronchial tubes or there is swelling of the lining of these airways. Thick mucus is also produced, which further blocks breathing. Although asthma cannot be cured, the symptoms can be controlled with the help of your physician.

In many patients, asthma is triggered by specific allergies such as pollens, molds, ragweed, trees or grasses. In some patients, the bronchial tubes become small and swollen because of nervousness, cold or hot air, high humidity and exercise. Asthma is noted to run in families.

Exercise induced asthma involves asthma symptoms that occur during or immediately after activity.

Your doctor will evaluate your pulmonary function by reviewing your family history as well as your own personal history, performing breathing studies, and a physical examination. Medication and change of lifestyle are key to helping you control your symptoms.

So, if you have asthma, you should see your doctor regularly. You will need to learn what things cause your asthma symptoms and how to avoid them. Your doctor will also prescribe medicines to keep your asthma under control.