- Asthma is a disease that affects your lungs. It causes the lining of your airways to swell, making it difficult for air to pass through.
- Asthma can cause wheezing, chest tightness, and coughing attacks. In some cases, it can be a medical emergency.
- Once you’ve been diagnosed with asthma it cannot be cured, however, it can be managed by working closely with your doctor.
Chest pain, wheezing, and breathlessness are the all too common symptoms asthma sufferers experience. Asthma is a chronic lung disease that causes inflammation in the lungs which can make an individual sensitive to triggers like mold, dust, pet dander, and more.
Approximately 25 million Americans have asthma and unfortunately, it cannot be cured. The good news is that asthma can be managed to the point where your symptoms become minor. All the more reason to get informed. If you or a loved one is suffering from asthma, here’s what you need to know including the common symptoms, causes, and treatment options available. We’ll also find out if asthma is preventable. Let’s dive in!
What Is Asthma?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) explains that asthma is a disease that affects your lungs. Asthma causes the lining of your airways to swell and the muscles to tighten, making it difficult for air to pass through.
Asthma sufferers often have difficulty breathing. Engaging in physical activities is also often a challenge (or in some cases, impossible!). The CDC also notes that 1 in 12 children have asthma, making it one of the most common long-term diseases in children. That said, adults can have asthma too.