Getting to Know and Manage Asthma
Getting to Know and Manage Asthma Asthma is an acute respiratory disease that is characterized by shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing (a whistling sound when breathing). This disease is caused by swelling and enlargement of the airways in the lungs, making it difficult to breathe. Asthma can be managed and controlled, but it cannot be cured. The main risk factors for asthma are a family history of asthma, allergies, and exposure to environmental factors such as cigarette smoke, air pollution, and dust. Some symptoms of asthma include shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, and chest pain. Some people also feel tired and have difficulty sleeping due to asthma. Managing Asthma To manage asthma, the doctor will prescribe medications that can relieve asthma symptoms. These medications can be in the form of tablets, inhalers, or nebulizers. Inhalers are devices that spray medicine directly into the airways. Nebulizers are devices that provide medicine in the form of vapor t...