Asthma

Asthma

What Is Asthma? Asthma is a disease that makes it difficult for a person to breathe. When people breathe, air makes its way through the nose or mouth to the lungs. Air moves in and out of the lungs through special tubes.

These tubes swell and become narrow during an asthma attack. Because of this, less air moves into and out of the lungs. People with asthma might wheeze or cough. Their chest might feel tight. They may have a hard time breathing. A bad asthma attack can last for days or even cause death.

People with Asthma About 235 million children and adults around the world have asthma. Asthma can show up in a person at any age. About one child out of every ten in the United States has asthma. About half of these children will see their asthma get better as they grow older. However their symptoms often return when they become older adults. One adult in twelve has asthma. Each year, more people in the United States and around the world get asthma.

Doctors do not know how people get asthma. They do know that it cannot be passed from one personto another like a cold. However, the disease often runs in families. If both parents have asthma, their children are more likely to have it. People who are around cigarette smoke are also more likely to develop asthma.

The Causes of Attacks Many things can cause asthma attacks. These triggers are different from person to person. Dust, animals, pollen, or mold can cause an attack for many people. Cigarette smoke, fumes from cars, and other strong smells are also common triggers. Coming down with a cold or the flu can often bring on an attack as well. Exercise can cause an asthma attack in some people