What is Asthma?

What is Asthma?

People with asthma have sensitive airways in their lungs. When exposed to certain triggers their airways narrow, making it hard for them to breathe.

Three main factors cause the airways to become narrow:

• The inside lining of the airways becomes red and swollen (this is called inflammation);
• Extra mucous (sticky fluid) may be produced; and
• The muscle around the airways tightens (this is called bronchoconstriction).

Asthma can be recognised through a number of symptoms. These include a dry irritating, persistent cough, particularly at night, in the early morning or with exercise or activity; chest tightness; shortness of breath and wheezing.

Asthma can be triggered by a range of things. Some examples are:

• colds and flu;
• exposure to cigarette smoke;
• exercise or activity;
• inhaled allergens (e.g. pollens, moulds, animal dander and dust mites);
• environmental (e.g. dust and pollution);
• changes in temperature and weather;
• certain medications (e.g. aspirin);
• chemicals and strong smells (e.g. perfumes, cleaners);
• emotional factors (e.g. laughter, stress, anxiety, excitement); and
• some foods and food preservatives, flavourings and colourings.

Every person's asthma is different. Not all people will have the same triggers, not will they react to every trigger listed above. You may not always know what triggers your asthma.

Source: http://www.asthmaaustralia.org.au/