Asthma is a lung disease that affects the breathing tubes (airways) that allow air to go in and out of the lungs. Normal airways are wide open, so air can go in and out easily. With asthma, the airways become narrow so it is harder for air to go in and out.

When you have asthma, your airways are sensitive and easily irritated by things you breathe into the lungs. Things that irritate your lungs are called asthma triggers. When the airways become irritated the muscles on the outside of the airways spasm or squeeze. The spasm may cause you to cough or feel pain and tightness in the chest. Asthma also causes swelling or inflammation on the inside of the airways. This swelling may cause you to wheeze and make it hard to breathe. Mucous also builds up inside the swollen airways, blocking the airway. This may make you cough or have problems breathing. Asthma medicines are used to control or treat asthma symptoms. Taking your medicines and avoiding triggers is the best way to treat your asthma. Your asthma provider should give you an Asthma Action Plan to help you mange the asthma at home.

How do I get Asthma?
Asthma tends to run in families. Children may also have asthma even though they may have no family history of the disease. It is a common disease that affects 1 out of every 10 people. There is no "cure" for asthma. It may be life long. Treatment involves understanding and avoiding the triggers of asthma. Triggers are things that are irritating to the lungs and cause asthma symptoms. Medicines are used to control asthma and its symptoms

How do I know if I or my child has asthma?
Please click here to go to "A Kids' Asthma Check". This is a list of questions that will help to determine if your child may have asthma. Please answer the questions and then print it out and discuss the results with your doctor or primary care provider.