How Can I Manage Asthma ?
About 17 million Americans have asthma. Nearly five million of them are children. Many children out grow asthma in their teen years. Each year, 5000 people die from asthma. Asthma is a disease of the lung airways. The airways get swollen and inflamed. They react easily to certain things, like virus, smoke, or pollen. When the inflamed airways react, they get narrow. This makes it hard to breathe. There is no know cure for asthma, but there are ways to control it well.
How do I know if I have asthma?
Symptoms of asthma may include:
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
When these symptoms get worse, it is an "asthma attack."
Why are some people more likely to have asthma?
Some people are more at risk due to their family history. And you are more likely to have asthma symptoms if you live where the air quality is bad.
Many things may start to worsen an asthma attack including:
- Being exposed to allergens (dust, roaches, etc.)
- Viral infections of the lungs and airways
- Tobacco smoke and certain outside pollutants (chemicals or dirt in the air)
- Exercise
At what age do people get asthma?
Many older adults have asthma. Some people develop it later in life. Others get asthma as children. The asthma may or may not go away as they grow up.
What tests should I have done?
- Chest x-ray
- Blood test
- Tests to measure how open your airways are
- Tests that show whether or not you have heart disease
How can asthma be treated?
There are many drugs used to treat asthma. There are both prescription drugs and over-the-counter drugs. Talk with your doctor about the best medications for you.
How do I keep my asthma under control?
- Talk to your doctor
- Ask your doctor for a treatment plan--then, be sure to follow it
- Watch for early signs and respond fast
- Stay away from things that make your asthma worse
- See your doctor at least once every six months
This information was provided by FDA Office of Women's Health |
