Asthma is a breathing problem that makes it more difficult for you to get air in and out of your lungs. When you breathe in (inhale), fresh air comes in through your nose. It passes down through tubes (called bronchi) to your lungs. When you breathe out (exhale), stale air from your lungs is breathed out through the same tubes. When a person has asthma, the breathing tubes are sensitive. They may react to smoke, pollen, dust, air pollution, allergies, or other triggers. In a person with asthma, the breathing tubes may tighten, becoming inflamed and swollen.

When the breathing tubes react or when they get inflamed, they become narrow. That makes it harder for you to breathe fresh air in and stale air out. Your difficulty in breathing may change.  Sometimes you will feel fine. Other times you may have breathing problems. In older people, it is sometimes difficult for the doctor to decide whether the problem is asthma or another lung disease or heart disease.  Other lung diseases that cause similar problems are bronchitis and emphysema, particularly common in people who smoke. In some adults, bronchitis and emphysema (COPD) may seem like asthma. Or asthma may seem like bronchitis and emphysema. Heart disease may also cause breathing problems. And a person can have heart and lung disease at the same time.

What are the symptoms of Asthma?

The symptoms of asthma can be confusing, but the most common symptoms are:

• A wheezing sound when you breathe. Sometimes this happens only when you have a cold. 
• Cough. You may cough up mucus. The cough often comes back and it may last more than a week. 
• Shortness of breath. You may have difficulty breathing only now and then, or you may have problems quite often. It feels as if you can't get enough air into your lungs. 
• Chest tightness. Your chest may feel tight in cold weather or during exercise. Chest tightness may be one of the first signs that your asthma is getting worse.

Is Asthma serious?

Yes. Asthma is a serious health problem. And it is a continuing problem. But the good news is that it can be successfully treated. People with asthma can live normal, productive lives. They need regular medical care from an experienced doctor. However, without proper treatment, asthma can be extremely dangerous, even fatal.

What causes Asthma?

Scientists are not sure why some people have asthma and others don't. For many people, a tendency to asthma may be inherited. Other factors may also be involved. The basic problem is inflammation of the airways. Among the things that scientists know are involved are:

Smoking

Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or anything else, increases your risk of developing asthma symptoms. If you smoke at home, your child has a greater chance of developing asthma. It's smart to avoid smoke and people who smoke.

In The Family

Asthma can "run in the family." It can be inherited. It may be more common in certain Hispanic people, such as those who come from Puerto Rico. If you have a blood relative with asthma or allergies (father, mother, sister, brother, son, daughter), you are at higher risk of getting asthma.

Allergies

People who are allergic to pollen, pets, or dust are at higher risk of developing asthma.

Medications

Some medications such as some of those which treat heart disease and high blood pressure may cause asthma symptoms or make asthma worse. Make sure your doctor and your pharmacist know all the medications you are taking. Keep an up-to-date list of all medications you use, both prescription and over-the-counter medicines.

Is Asthma "Psychosomatic"? Is it all in the head?

No. People used to think asthma was a psychological problem. It is not. Asthma is a real medical problem, but too much stress can make asthma worse.

Can Asthma be treated?

Yes! The good news is that most people with asthma can be treated very successfully! The treatment may mean medication that you inhale (breathe in from an inhaler or puffer) or pills. Successful treatment of asthma is a partnership. It takes cooperation between the patient and the doctor. You and your doctor will work out an asthma treatment plan. The treatment plan will tell you what to do for your asthma when you're feeling well, and when you're sick. Your treatment plan will help you know when to take your medications. You will understand what the medications should do. You will know when to call your doctor, especially if your asthma is getting worse.

What are the keys to a good Asthma treatment plan?

If you have asthma, you have to know your own body well so you can notice when changes happen. Asthma gives early warning signs of trouble. You also have to work closely with a doctor. You need to know what the best treatments are for you. You need to know the signs of trouble and when to call your doctor. You need a doctor who will talk to you and answer all your questions. You need a pharmacist who can give you information about any medicine you use. Many good treatments for asthma are available today. The treatments will relax the air tubes in your lungs and help you breathe easier. The treatments reduce the swelling and inflammation in the airtubes.

It's important to follow your doctor's advice about your treatment. Some medicines help prevent asthma. You need to take these medicines all the time, even when you feel well.
Other medicines may be needed if your asthma starts to get worse. If your asthma is getting worse, it's important to start treatment early, as soon as your symptoms begin. Remember that asthma is a problem that does not go away. It is a chronic disease, like diabetes or heart problems. You need a doctor who knows how to treat asthma.

Regular care is part of your treatment plan. Don't wait until you have problems to see the doctor. You have to keep on top of asthma, working with the help of your doctor. Your doctor will teach you how to use medications and tell you the signs of serious problems. Be sure you understand. Don't just smile and say "OK." If you don't understand what your doctor said, ask questions until you do understand. Your doctor will tell you:

• What medications you should take.
• When you should take them. 
• What your medications are supposed to do. 
• What the signs of problems are. 
• When to call your doctor for advice. 
• When to go to an emergency room.

Are there special ools that help people with Ashtma?

There are several different devices that may help you control your asthma and use your asthma medicine better. Ask your doctor about a peak flow meter and a spacer or holding chamber. There's even a special device to help people with arthritis use their medication inhaler more easily.

Should I try those Drugstore Remedies?

No. They may help a little. But everyone is an individual and needs their own asthma treatment plan. If you have asthma, you need an experienced doctor. Good treatment for your asthma means working with your doctor on a regular basis, not buying drugstore remedies that may be expensive and may not treat the problem. In fact, asthma may also be triggered by over the counter drugs.  One study found that one adult asthmatic in five can suffer a potentially life-threatening reaction to aspirin.

If I have Asthma, Are there medications I should avoid?

Maybe. Some drugs may cause problems for people with asthma. Tell your doctor what medications you are taking for other conditions. Some asthma drugs may cause irregular heart beats (cardiac arrhythmias). Tell your doctor if this happens to you. As a reminder, here are some drugs that may interact with asthma medications:

Blood Pressure and Heart Drugs

Some people with asthma find that their asthma gets worse when they take certain blood pressure drugs. Some of these drugs are called beta-adrenergic blockers (such as propranolol, nadolol, timolol). Others are called ACE inhibitors.

Sleeping Pills And Tranquilizers

Sleeping pills, tranquilizers and other sedative drugs may also cause problems for older people with asthma. These drugs make you breath more slowly and less deeply. That can be dangerous if you have lung problems such as asthma. Remind your doctor about your asthma every time you are given a new prescription.

If I am having problems with Asthma, What should I do?

ACT NOW! The best control of asthma starts with an asthma treatment plan and early treatment for asthma problems. Serious problems from asthma may result if you delay treatment.

DON'T WAIT! If you are having severe breathing problems or if your medication is not working, Call your doctor and follow their advice. If you cannot reach your doctor, go to the nearest hospital emergency room. Call your doctor right away, even if you are worried about bothering your doctor. Do not wait to see if you feel better. Asthma can be serious! It's better to be safe than sorry.

Are there special problems about Asthma in older people?

Yes and no. Treatment of asthma means recognizing asthma triggers, understanding your asthma treatment, knowing your asthma's early warning signs, and talking with your doctor. Those rules are the same for young people and older people. Older people are more likely to have other health problems. They have high blood pressure or heart problems. They may take medication for these problems. Sometimes a drug that is good for one health problem is bad for another. Your doctor should know about all your health problems and medications. Your doctor should know all the drugs you are taking.

If you have more than one doctor, remember to tell each doctor what your problems are and what drugs you are taking. If you have a problem, ask the doctor whether one drug might be interacting with another to cause your problem. Keep an up-to-date list of all the medicines you take. Carry the list with you. Many older people still smoke. Smoking makes asthma and other lung problems worse. Tell your doctor if you smoke or if someone in your household smokes. You may be at high risk for lung problems. Other people in your home may also be at high risk for lung problems.

What is the good news?

• You can control your asthma! Good treatment is a partnership between you and your doctor. 
• You have to talk to your doctor. 
• Your doctor has to talk to you. 
• Young and old people can control asthma.