What is asthma?

Asthma is a chronic lung condition that makes your lungs more sensitive than other people's. This condition is with you every day even if you don't have symptoms. Sensitive airways react to things in the air that irritate them. When they are irritated, the lining becomes inflamed or swollen and thickened. The muscles around the airways begin to squeeze (or spasm) as a result of the irritation. Mucus that's thicker than normal may also be produced.

Together, these three things: swelling of the lining, muscle spasm, and thick mucus, reduce the room inside the airways for the air to flow through. This can make breathing difficult, if not impossible.

Typical symptoms include:

• Cough
• Chest tightness
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath

There are a number of important facts concerning asthma:

• You need to follow your treatment plan even on "good days."
• Asthma doesn't go away when the symptoms do.
• If you just treat attacks, you're not controlling your asthma.
• Daily commitment and control will help give you your best result.
• If you're having daily symptoms, you're not in control of your asthma.
• Your best treatment plan is one you develop with your doctor or other health care professional.

While attacks can be annoying or even scary, you can work out a treatment plan with your health care professional to control your condition. Staying active and healthy is part of a good asthma management programme. Why give up the activities or the quality of life you enjoy? Instead, control your asthma daily.