What is asthma?
Asthma is a lung condition that causes occasional problems with breathing. Its main symptoms are wheezing, breathlessness, coughing and a tight chest. These symptoms can become more severe during an asthma attack.
Who gets asthma?
Asthma affects many people of all ages. It often begins in childhood, although it can sometimes start in adulthood.
What causes asthma?
Asthma is caused by inflammation of the airways in the lungs and it can happen seemingly at random or after patients are exposed to a trigger. Common triggers include exercise, pollution, allergies (for example pollen or pet fur) and infections such as the flu.
Is asthma a chronic disease?
Yes, for many people asthma is a long lasting condition, especially if it starts in adulthood.
What are asthma medications?
Asthma is typically treated with inhalers that allow users to breathe in medicines. There are reliever inhalers, which are used to provide relief for symptoms for a short period, and preventer inhalers that are used daily to prevent the onset of symptoms.