Asthma: An Introduction

Although most people have heard of asthma, few know exactly what asthma is or how seriously it affects the lives of people of all ages all around the world. Asthma is a respiratory condition that is chronic, which means that it is always present, and there is no cure for the condition. For those that live with the condition, their lungs, airways and breathing passages are very sensitive, more sensitive than other non-asthmatic people, to everyday compounds in the air and the environment. This sensitivity leads to inflamed and swollen breathing passages that makes taking a breath a difficult thing to do. In addition, the muscles that control the breathing passages begin to spasm, pulling the already inflamed air passages tighter together. The result is a marked decrease in the size of the airways, sometimes even complete closure.

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Asthma Facts

To help understand the severity of asthma and the issues it presents, here are some basic facts on the condition:

• 1 in 7 children has asthma, most which are untreated
• Asthma is the most prevalent chronic disease in children
• 1 in 12 adults has asthma
• People of African and Latino heritage have the highest rates of asthma
• Many people believe that asthma is an allergic reaction or a cold
• Asthma can be fatal
• People cannot control asthma attacks
• Children that live in households where parents smoke are more likely to have asthma
• Mothers that smoke during pregnancy can contribute to the baby having asthma
• Asthma may be hereditary
• The exact cause of asthma is not known
• Asthma cannot be cured
• Asthma can be controlled with medications

Most people diagnosed with asthma can lead a normal life, provided they avoid the triggers or factors that bring on asthma attacks, take medication regularly and as prescribed, and learn to watch for the earliest possible signs of an asthma attack.

As some children age, they may discover that the severity of the asthma conditions decreases over time. For other children the symptoms may get worse as they age. Children with chronic colds, hay fever, and eczema are more likely to have asthma or develop it later in life. Children and adults with asthma that enjoy regular exercise and are active, eat right and stay fit are less likely to have as many asthma attacks as children that are less healthy overall.

The research continues to try to find a cure for asthma. In the meantime there are several options for controlling asthma. Removing all possible irritants from the environment is the first step, then finding the right prescription medication to help keep breathing passages clear and free from inflammation is the next major step. Careful monitoring by a doctor and proper education for the child or adult and family can help control this condition.

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