Asthma
Asthma is a chronic lung disease that causes inflammation in the airways, making it difficult to breathe. Symptoms include: coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.
These symptoms can vary in severity and come and go over time.
Asthma | |
|---|---|
Symptoms | Coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath |
Causes | Inflammation and muscle tightening around the airways |
Triggers | Allergens, viral infections, air pollution, dust mites, exercise, mold, pests, pets, tobacco smoke, strong chemicals or smells |
Treatment | Inhalers, tablets, and other treatments |
Asthma can be managed with treatment, and there's no cure. A doctor can diagnose asthma with a physical exam, history, and tests like spirometry and peak flow.
Some things you can do to help control your asthma symptoms include: Regular exercise, Maintaining a healthy weight, and Controlling heartburn and GERD.