Asthma and You

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways. In susceptible individuals, this inflammation causes recurrent episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness and coughing, particularly at night or in the early morning. It is not contagious. It is a lifelong disease which can be controlled with daily medications. Asthma is increasing at such a rapid rate, some are calling it an epidemic. This common disease probably affects some 7 to 12 percent of the U.S.

Asthma is often associated with other conditions. These conditions are often considered triggers, or things that make asthma worse. It is a disease in which the airways become blocked or narrowed. These effects are usually temporary, but they cause shortness of breath, breathing trouble, and other symptoms. Asthma is the most common chronic disease of childhood, and affects one child in seven in the UK. Its prevalence differs widely from country to country, even within Europe.

Allergen induced asthma usually becomes apparent before the age of 35. Non allergic asthma usually has its onset in middle age and can be triggered or worsened by reflux disease, exercise, weather changes and illness. Allergies to animals, dust, cigarette smoke and to food are some of them and asthma sufferers should generally refrain from certain foods like pickles or ketchup. It can often be triggered by dairy products so it is best to refrain from these as well as eggs and chocolate for a couple of weeks to see if there is any improvement.
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