Asthma is a breathing disorder that affects the small airways found inside the lungs. During times of an attack these airways become more narrow causing the sufferer to have difficulty in breathing. The extent of how much the airways narrow will determine the length and severity of an attack. Asthma can begin at almost any age but is most common during childhood. It has been reported that 1 in 10 children currently suffer with asthma, with around half that number of affected adults. Asthma can be hereditary but it is not uncommon for sufferers of asthma to have no close family that suffer.
The most common symptoms include coughing and wheezing. Feeling breathless and enduring a tight chest are also typical signs. Symptoms usually vary greatly from person to person and also on different occasions with the same person. Symptoms may last just a few short hours, but others have reported longer lasting affects which go on for days.
Asthma is caused by an inflammation of the airways, its is currently still not understood why this takes place. This inflammation then goes on to stimulate the muscles around the airway causing them to become constricted resulting in the associated breathing difficulties. An increase in production of mucus has also been noted and that adds further constriction to the airway.
Asthma is usually untreatable but sufferers are given inhalers to use when they encounter times when they find it difficult to breathe. If you or a family member suspects that you may have asthma or have experienced an attack please make an appointment to see you doctor.
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