What is asthma? People with asthma have sensitive airways in their lungs. When they are exposed to certain triggers, their airways narrow (see picture) making it hard for them to breathe. There are two main factors that cause airways to become narrow: 1. The inside lining of the airway becomes red and swollen (this is called inflammation) and extra mucus (sticky fluid) may be produced. 2. The muscles around the airways tightens (this is called bronchoconstriction). Why do asthma best air filters asthma best air filters people get asthma in the first place? The causes of asthma are not really understood, but there is often a family history of asthma, eczema or hayfever. Asthma can begin at any age and change over time. Unborn babies whose mothers smoke during pregnancy, and children exposed to smoke in early childhood, have a higher risk of developing childhood asthma. What are the main symptoms of asthma? ú Coughing ú Shortness of breath ú Tightness in the asthma lung diagram pics asthma best air filters chest ú Wheezing - a high pitched raspy sound on breathing The symptoms of asthma may vary from person to person, and from time to time. Some people may have all these symptoms while other people may only have a wheeze or cough. What triggers asthma symptoms? Every person can have different asthma triggers. The most common are: ú Colds and flu ú Exercise (this can be managed) ú Inhaled allergens - ( eg pollens, moulds, animal asthma society asthma best air filters hair and dust mite) ú Cigarette Smoke ú Changes in temperature and weather ú Certain drugs (eg aspirin and some blood pressure medications) ú Chemicals and strong smells ú Some foods and food preservatives, flavourings and colourings ú Some occupations In some people it can be difficult to know what triggers asthma! Can asthma be cured? Asthma cannot be cured but it can be controlled so that you are able to carry out your daily activities pictures of asthma lungs asthma best air filters without asthma
