Understanding Asthma: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Asthma

• Asthma is a chronic lung disease affecting people of all ages
• Caused by inflammation and muscle tightening around the airways
• This makes breathing difficult
• Symptoms include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness

Causes of Asthma

• Airborne allergens (pollen, dust mites, mold spores, pet dander, cockroach waste)
• Respiratory infections (like the common cold)
• Physical activity
• Cold air
• Air pollutants and irritants (smoke)

Asthma Symptoms

• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness or pain
• Wheezing (especially when exhaling), common in children
• Trouble sleeping due to coughing or wheezing
• Worsening coughing or wheezing triggered by respiratory illnesses (like colds or the flu)

Asthma Prognosis

• People with asthma can live productive lives and participate in sports and other activities

Asthma Treatments

• Currently, no cure exists
• Treatments control symptoms to allow a normal life
• Inhalers are the main treatment, delivering medicine directly to the airways
• Tablets and other treatments may be essential for severe asthma

Asthma Support Groups

• Lung Saskatchewan offers online communities for people with lung disease
• These platforms provide support

Possible Asthma Disabilities

• Difficulty breathing, making it hard to catch your breath (feeling like you're running out of air)
• Coughing
• Wheezing

Asthma Resources

• World Health Organization (WHO)
• National Institutes of Health
• Mayo Clinic

This quiz covers essential information about asthma, a chronic lung disease that affects individuals across various age groups. Participants will learn about the causes, symptoms, and available treatments for managing asthma effectively. Gain insights into living with asthma and maintaining a productive lifestyle despite the condition.