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Asthma is defined as an intermittent, reversible, obstructive airway disease in which the trachea and bronchi respond in a hyperactive way to certain stimuli. Asthma can begin at any age, about half of the cases develop in childhood and another half before age 40. Approximately 17% of all Americans have had asthma at sometime in their lives. Asthma is more often disruptive, affecting school attendance, occupational choices, physical activity and many other aspects of life.

There are three types of asthma namely allergic asthma, idiopathic or nonallergic asthma and mixed asthma.

Allergic asthma is caused by a known allergen or allergens (e.g., dust, pollens, animal fur, dander, food and mold). Most allergens are airborne and seasonal. People with allergic asthma usually have a family history of allergies and past medical history of allergic rhinitis or eczema. Exposure to the allergen triggers an asthmatic attack.

Idiopathic asthma is not related to specific allergens. Factors that trigger an attack are common cold, respiratory tract infections, exercise, emotions and environmental pollutants. Some pharmacologic agents like aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, beta adrenergic blockers, food preservatives, hair dye, also may be the factors.

Mixed asthma is the most common form of asthma. It has characteristics of both the allergic and non-allergic forms.

The three common symptoms of asthma are cough, dyspnea and wheezing. Asthma attack frequently occur at night, but the cause is not completely understood. An asthmatic attack usually starts suddenly with cough and tight sensation in the chest, followed by slow, laborious and wheezy breathing. The person tries to attain an upright position and may involve the use of all accessory muscles to ease breathing. Obstructed air flow causes dyspnea. Later signs include cyanosis due to severe hypoxia, and symptoms of carbon dioxide retention, including sweating, tachycardia and a widened pulse pressure.

The asthma attack may last from 30 minutes to several hours and may subside spontaneously. Sometimes it becomes more severe and turns fatal causing a continuous reaction called status asthmaticus. Asthma can be accompanied by eczema, rashes and temporary edema.

No single test confirms the diagnosis of asthma. A complete history, including family, environmental and occupational history may disclose the factors that precipitate the asthmatic attack. A positive skin test that produces a wheal and flare reaction identifies

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