Albright College


What is Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic disease of the airways making breathing difficult.  The airways are tubes that carry air in and out of your lungs.  Asthma occurs when the inside walls of the airways become sore and swollen.  Symptoms include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and tightness of the chest.

Asthma is considered a serious disease that affects more than 22 million people in the United States alone and causes nearly 2 million trips to the emergency room each year.

Those with a family history of asthma, have a greater risk of developing the disease, however, anyone can develop asthma at any time.  Adult-onset asthma occurs frequently.

There are two types of medications used to treat asthma:  quick-relief medicines to stop symptoms and long-term control medicines to prevent symptoms.  

Asthma triggers for some people include:

  1. Dust Mites
  2. Animal Dander
  3. Molds
  4. Pests
  5. Latex
  6. Pollens
  7. Smoke and Fumes
  8. Respiratory infections and colds

Spring is upon us, so please consult your health care provider if you have any asthma related symptoms.

 :: Tip of the Month Archives  ::