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Simply explained, asthma is a chronic [incurable] condition that affects the respiratory system. Asthma symptoms can range from mild, such as a constant, slight shortness of breath, to life threatening where there is no movement of air in or out of the lungs. Asthma patients can learn to manage their condition using a combination of medical care and environmental changes.

What Happens During an Asthma Attack
When you have asthma, the inside walls of your airways, the tubes that carry air into your lungs, are sensitive and slightly swollen. During periods of an asthma attack, the muscles of the walls of these tubes, called bronchial tubes, tighten up, reducing the size of the air passage. The cells in the lungs also produce extra mucous, further restricting the airways. Airway compromise may be slight or severe. The ideal is to have an awareness that an asthma attack is coming on. Quick action is needed to lessen the severity of the asthma attack.

Triggers
Several things can trigger an asthma attack. These include:
- Pollens.
- Dust mites.
- Molds.
- Pet dander.
- Foods such as sea food, eggs, milk, peanuts and soy based foods.
- Respiratory infections such as colds and flues.
- Tobacco smoke.
- Paint and chemicals.
- Stress.

Symptoms
Increased shortness of breath, especially after physical exertion or times of stress.
- Wheezing which is defined as a high pitched, whistling sound made while breathing.
This is due to narrowing of the bronchial tubes. It is usually most noticeable on
expiration [breathing out].
- Changes in sleep patterns due to coughing, wheezing or shortness of breath.
- Tightness or pain in the chest while breathing.
- An increased use of bronchodilators, usually self administered by the patient
using a small, hand held device.

What To Do
If the asthma attack is severe, call 911 immediately as an asthma attack can be life threatening. Asthma attacks occur and can progress quite rapidly. If you have asthma or live with someone who has asthma make sure you know where their medications are and the correct way to administer the medications. If you are just starting to show signs of asthma, see your doctor. Your doctor can prescribe the proper medications and also suggest lifestyle changes to help you control your asthma. With proper medical care and an awareness of your environment, there is no reason the patient with asthma cannot live a long, productive

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