What is Asthma
Asthma is an ongoing condition that interferes with breathing by preventing air
from flowing freely into the lungs. When your child has asthma, his or
her airways are inflamed. As a result, the airways are especially sensitive and
easily irritated. When irritated by a trigger, airways swell up and the muscles
around them constrict, blocking the flow of oxygen to the lungs, making it hard
to breathe.
Coughing and wheezing are the most common symptoms of asthma. However, rapid
breathing, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, along with tightness in
the chest, are also frequent signs.
The actual causes of asthma are not known, and there’s no accurate way to
predict who will get asthma, but a family history may contribute to
susceptibility in your child.
How Can I Help My Child be an Everyday Kid?
Asthma can be kept controlled. And, even though there is no cure, with proper
treatment, your child with asthma can live a healthy, active lifestyle, just
like any other kid.
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Your Child’s Lungs >>