What is Asthma?
Asthma is a chronic disease which makes it hard for its sufferer to get air in and out of the lungs.



This disease cannot be cured, but it is preventable. If nothing is done for the prevention of asthma attacks, it can get severe and can be fatal for its victims. It is observed that more kids have to miss school because of asthma than any other chronic disease.

Who is its victim?
One in seven children and one in twelve adults fall prey to this disease. African Americans and Latinos have a higher risk for developing asthma.

What happens to an asthma victim during an attack?
Swelling, tightening muscles and too much mucus can block the air that flows into and out of the lungs.



Things in the environment that can set off asthma attacks are called triggers. Some common triggers include:

• Smoking
• Aspirin and other medications
• Dust and dust mites
• Strong emotional responses (laughing, crying, etc.)
• Pollen
• Pets (the "dandruff' from their skin)
• Stress
• Roaches (their feces and dried body parts)
• Breathing cold air/weather changes
• Colds, respiratory infections
• Mold, mildew
• Playing sports, running
• Perfumes, deodorants
• Air pollution
• Strong chemical smells (paint, cleaning fluids, etc.)
• Second hand smoke is a BIG trigger (especially for kids)!

People with asthma may have a reaction to these triggers.

What are the signs of Asthma?
Following can be the warning signs of asthma.

• Wheezing
• Feeling tired
• Coughing
• Restlessness
• Tightness in the chest

More Asthma facts
• 397 died of asthma in 2002 and research has shown that approximately 60% of asthma deaths are preventable

• Asthma is the leading reason children visit hospital

• One million school days are lost nationally each year due to Asthma

• Affects 14% of people under 20 and 11% of adults

• Is more likely to affect boys (15%) than girls (12%)

• The cause of asthma is unknown and there is currently no cure. However, a number of factors have been identified which increase the risk of asthma. Research continues into improvements in treatment and management and finding a cure

• Regular physical activity is part of good asthma management. However exercise can trigger asthma if not properly managed