What is asthma?

Asthma is a disease that affects the lungs. It causes repeated episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness and nighttime or early morning coughing.

Asthma is common among children but occurs in adults as well.

What causes an asthma attack?

Asthma attacks occur when your lungs don’t get enough air to breathe. Most attacks are triggered by exposure to things in the environment such as:

• Secondhand smoke
• Dust mites
• Mold
• Pests (such as cockroaches and rodents)
• Pets
• Chemicals
• Air pollution

What are symptoms of asthma?

• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Chest tightness
• Shortness of breath
• Fast or noisy breathing

How is asthma treated?

Asthma cannot be cured, but it can be controlled by avoiding things that can cause an attack and by taking your medication as directed by your doctor. Some medications are inhaled; others are taken as a pill.

Work with your doctor to create an asthma management plan so you know what to do based on your own symptoms.

How can I prevent asthma symptoms?

To prevent asthma symptoms:

• Learn about your asthma and how to control it.
• Use medicines as directed by your doctor to prevent or stop attacks.
• Avoid things that make your asthma worse.
• Get regular checkups from your doctor.
• Follow your asthma self-management plan.

Where can I find more information about asthma?

Visit the Asthma webpage on our community education website, www.gethealthyclarkcounty.org for more information.