What is Asthma and what triggers it?

Asthma is a chronic lung disease characterized by inflammation of the airways.  The inflammation makes the passages smaller, making it more difficult for air to move in and out of the lung, causing symptoms such as cough, chest tightness, shortness of breath and wheezing.  Asthma triggers include allergic rhinitis and exposure to allergens including dust mites, pollens, animal dander and cockroach droppings.  Inflamed asthmatic airways are sensitive to environmental irritants such as cigarette smoke, strong perfumes, household cleaners, and car fumes.  There is much evidence reporting increased incidence of asthma in children exposed to smoke. Viral infections like colds, changing weather conditions, changes in temperature and humidity, emotional anxiety, and gastroesophageal reflux can also aggravate asthma. Asthma Triggers may differ from person to person, therefore identifying and avoiding these triggers can help lessen the chance of having an asthma attack.