What is asthma?

Asthma is a chronic condition that makes the lungs' airways swell and inflame. The muscles around the bronchial tubes in the lungs tighten, causing the airways to become sensitive and restricted. Thicker mucus is produced, which contributes to the narrowing of the airways in the lungs as well.

Symptoms of asthma may include:

•Coughing, especially at night
•Wheezing
•Tightness in the chest
•Impaired breathing (short, quick or noisy)

The frequency and intensity of these symptoms may vary from person to person. When these symptoms are exacerbated, it is called an asthma attack or asthma episode.

What triggers asthma?

■Allergens such as mold, pollen, animal dander, dust-mites and cockroaches

Irritants such as:
■Tobacco smoke
■Scented products like perfumes
■Pollution, especially the particulate matter (PM) that's found in smoke, smog and diesel exhaust fumes, which can be extremely hazardous to the lungs, especially when the PM is 2.5mm in diameter or smaller
■Intense feelings like stress, laughter or crying because they can restrict airflow and impair normal breathing patterns
■Food and alcohol due to the additives found in food and wine, like sulfites.


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