Asthma describes a process by which the breathing tubes (airways) in the lungs known as bronchi and bronchioles become temporarily swollen and narrow.

There are many reasons why the airways can become narrowed including infections but in asthmatics these airways are more sensitive and can narrow in response to a range of different triggers.

Asthma is very common and causes symptoms of wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and difficulties in breathing. These symptoms will occur at regular intervals and may be made worse by triggering factors.

Common triggers are the cold, exercise, pets, excitement or emotion and tobacco smoke. The symptoms may also vary over the day with many people finding that they are worse before going to be and first thing in the morning.

Asthma often runs in families and is also more common in people with eczema, allergic rhinitis, and food allergies. The severity of asthma can range from very mild symptoms only requiring occasional treatment through to severe asthma requiring regular medications to prevent attacks. Thankfully most asthmatics have mild asthma and many children will outgrow their asthma.



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