Definition
Asthma is an inflammatory disease of the lungs and airways that manifests itself by symptoms of breathlessness, wheezing and coughing. The airways of an asthmatic may tighten, which decreases the amount of air that reaches the lungs.
Asthma attacks can occur at different times and the symptoms can vary greatly from one crisis to another. In fact, in some children, asthma disappears with age, while in some people, it occurs only at different times of the year.
Triggers
Asthma attacks can be triggered by various factors, including allergens, pollution, infections (the flu or a cold caused by a virus), certain foods, cigarette smoke, cold air, vigorous effort or stress. When these triggers are involved, the airways become inflamed and swollen, restricting the amount of air inhaled and exhaled. Asthma can also be a hereditary disease.
