ASTHMA:

You take my breath away

What is ASTHMA? What causes ASTHMA? What are the signs and symptoms of ASTHMA? What are the types of ASTHMA? What are the usual diagnostic tests for ASTHMA? What are the medications for ASTHMA? What are the complications of ASTHMA?

ASTHMA
-is a chronic inflammatory disease of the respiratory system resulting in airway hyper responsiveness, mucosal edema & mucus production.

Medications
Adrenergic stimulants: Epinephrine, Albuterol, Combivent Methylxanthines: Theophylline, Aminophylline Anticholinergics: Atropine, Combivent Leukotriene Modifiers: Montelukast, Zafirlukast

Risk Factors:
Allergies Air pollution Smoking/exposure to smoke weather changes temperature strong odors stress laughing sinusitis exertion

Complications
Status Asthmaticus- a severe, prolonged asthma that does not respond to routine treatment

Signs and Symptoms

chest tightness Cough Difficulty of breathing wheezing Increased heartbeat Increased no. of respirations

Preventive measures
Modify home environment Pets may need to be removed from household