Asthma
Asthma is a condition in which your airways narrow and swell and may produce extra mucus. This can make breathing difficult and trigger coughing, a wheezing sound when you breathe out and/or shortness of breath. Many medical professionals classify asthma in three different ways:
- Occupational Asthma - dust, fumes, and other substances at work that cause asthma.
- Exercise-induced Asthma - breathing complications during moments of intense cardiovascular work.
- Childhood Asthma - inflamed and/or irritated airways in younger children with developing lungs that often dissipates with aging.
For some people, asthma is a minor nuisance. For others, it can be a major problem that interferes with daily activities and may lead to life-threatening situations, emergency room visits, or hospitalization.
Even though asthma can't be cured, its symptoms can be controlled. Because asthma often changes over time as one gets older, it's important that you work with your provider to track your signs and symptoms and adjust your treatment accordingly.