Overview of Asthma and Allergies

What is asthma?

Asthma is a disease of the lungs that causes the airways to:

• Become swollen or irritated (called inflammation) specifically in the airway linings
• Produce large amounts of mucus that is thicker than normal
• Narrow because the muscles around the airways tighten

The symptoms of asthma are:

• Feeling short of breath
• Frequent coughing, especially at night
• Wheezing (a whistling noise during breathing)
• Chest tightness - feels like something is pressing or squeezing the chest

Asthma is very common; it is the most common chronic condition of childhood. Uncontrolled asthma can lead to missed work and school days, interrupted sleep patterns and, ultimately, poor work and school performance.

What causes asthma?

The cause of asthma is uncertain. Among those at higher risk for asthma are those who:

• Have a family history of asthma
• Have a history of allergies
• Have smokers living in the household
• Live in urban areas

Triggers are things that make your asthma symptoms start up or get worse. Asthma triggers include allergens, exercise, irritants (strong odors from cleaning products, perfumes, wood smoke, etc.), tobacco smoke, infections (colds, flu), weather changes (changes in temperature and/or humidity), and emotions such as laughing or crying.

What are allergies?

Allergies are when the body reacts to something that does not affect most people. Substances that cause allergies are called allergens and include things like pollens, molds, animal dander, and dust mites. Some people are also allergic to medications, foods and latex (rubber) products. Allergy symptoms include sneezing, watery eyes, itchy eyes and nose, coughing, and sometimes a rash or hives.

Allergy can be a trigger for people with asthma and can cause shortness of breath, cough and wheezing.

What has been the effect of asthma and allergies on society?

• 13 million school days and 10.1 million workdays are missed annually due to asthma.
• Approximately 3400 deaths occurred in 2005 from asthma.
• Total costs of allergies almost doubled from 2000 to 2005 ($6.1 billion to $11.2 billion).
• 40 deaths per year occur as a result of anaphylaxis due to insect stings.
• Food allergy affects 3 to 4% of adults and 6% of young children.

What can be done?

The goal of treating asthma and allergies is to control the disease. Your doctor or practitioner will work with you to:

• Identify triggers and teach you how to avoid them or manage them in your environment.
• Find the best medication plan to control your symptoms without causing side effects.
• Develop a disease action plan that is just for you which includes information on when to take medications, what to do if medications are not working and information on who to call and how to contact them when you have questions.