What is Childhood Asthma?

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What is Asthma? Asthma is a chronic disease that affects approximately 5 million children in the US alone and a severe attack or flare up as it is known, can kill. Asthma is a tightening or narrowing of the air passages causing the sufferer to struggle to breathe. Normally breath is taken into the windpipe and continues to the lungs via a network of tiny capillaries. Asthma occurs when the lungs and capillaries become irritated and inflamed. As they swell and block the air passages, breathing becomes more difficult. Mucus can also form in the inflamed passages causing coughing and further breathing difficulties. Muscles around the air passage can tighten and caused a blockage, this is known as bronchoconstriction. Symptoms of Asthma Symptoms of asthma can vary from mild to life-threatening. Wheezing can start suddenly, often at night or early morning. It may stop of its own accord or can be relieved by bronchodilators. Extreme Asthma Great difficulty breathing accompanied by panic because of shortness of breath. Face and lip color becomes blue. Sweating. Drowsiness and disorientation. Other symptoms affecting the chest and heart may occur and should always be taken extremely seriously. Causes Of Asthma Asthma sufferers are often allergic to certain substances, for example, pet dander, dust mites, molds, pollens, tobacco smoke and fumes. Any respiratory infection can trigger an attack for an asthma sufferer as can an allergy to a food or drug. Vigorous exercise, cold air or stress may cause an attack. Is Asthma Hereditary? Many asthma sufferers have relatives who also suffer either from asthma or related problems such as eczema and hayfever, but this is not always the case, some sufferers have no family history at all. Asthma and Children. Asthma is particularly distressing for children especially the very young who may not understand what is happening to them. Parents should try to eliminate all possible irritants and monitor their exercise but try to encourage the child to lead as normal a life as possible. This article is for information only. Anyone suffering breathing difficulties should see a doctor immediately. Childhood Asthma © 2007 Enter your search terms Submit search form Disclaimer Fromtots2teens.com accepts no liability for the content of this site nor for the opinions or information in any article. It does not accept liability for companies linked to this site. Advice on health matters should always be confirmed with a doctor and no liability is accepted for any action taken. Sitemap

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