DESCRIPTION
Asthma is a chronic disease in which the small airways of the lung become inflamed and narrow. Also, mucus-like phlegm is produced. These factors can restrict the flow of air and make breathing difficult.

FREQUENT SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Increased work to breathe
• Tightness in the chest
• Dry cough
• Fatigue from labored breathing
• Decreased appetite
• Nighttime symptoms
• Symptoms with exercise or at rest

• Pollens from grass and trees
• House dusts and molds
• Smoke and pollution
• Infections such as colds and influenza
• Strong odors and scents
• Dander from furry or feathered animals
• Exercise
• Cold air
• Emotional stress

• Avoid all smoke
• Reduce exposure to animal dander
• Reduce dust and mold in the home
• Avoid strong odors and sprays
• Stay indoors with air-conditioning when pollen and mold counts are high
• Discuss the flu shot with your doctor
• Use preventive medication before exercise, if directed by your physician
• Take maintenance medications regularly, not just when you feel like you need them
• Know your warning signs, peak flow zones and when to begin additional treatment

• Severe infections
• Death

• Quick-acting - relief medications - "rescues" or treats an asthma attack
• Bronchodilators - Proventil®, Ventolin®, Maxair® or albuterol - work to open the small airways by relaxing narrow muscles. It usually works within 15 minutes.
• Long-acting - control medications - prevents an asthma attack, but NOT for rescue or treatment
• Inhaled steroids - Aerobid®, Azmacort®, Beclovent®, Flovent®, Pulmicort® or Vanceril® - work to decrease swelling of the airways. May prevent asthma attacks if used daily. May take two weeks to take action.
• Inhaled cromolyn (Intal®) or nedocromil (Tilade®) - work to block the airway swelling that happens after exposure to triggers.
• Leukotriene modifiers - Singulair®, Accolate® or Zyflo® - work to decrease airway swelling after exposure to triggers. Taken orally as tablets or capsules.
• Oxygen - usually only given in the hospital or emergency room

• Keep a regular schedule of visits to your physician for discussion of symptoms and control of asthma
• Measure peak flow readings daily
• Wear or carry information stating that you have asthma and your medications

• Difficulty breathing
• Increased wheezing
• A peak flow below 70 percent of your personal best
• Chronic cough or other nighttime symptoms
• Respiratory infection with high fever