Asthma and Allergies

The symptoms you may feel during an asthma attack are due to the inflammation of the lungs and airways. This inflammation causes the simple act of breathing to become painful. Not only do the airways become tighter and narrower, the walls of those airways release extra mucus, adding additional barriers to breathing. This mucus also causes your body to cough, a mechanism used by the body to expel the mucus rapidly. Currently, there is no explanation of why asthma occurs or what triggers your lungs to be so sensitive.

There are many irritants that can trigger an asthmatic reaction. These are the most common:

• Airborne Allergens (pollen, mold, animal dander, and dust)
• Allergic Rhinitis (hay fever)
• Viral infections of the respiratory system
• Tobacco smoke
• Pollution
• Strong odors (paint, house cleaners, etc)
• Exercise (Note: asthmatic people can and should exercise, with care, when they are feeling well. Ask your doctor about exercise and asthma).
• Drug sensitivity (for example, to aspirin)
• Stress and emotional anxiety