ASTHMA

WHAT IS ASTHMA?

• A respiratory condition marked by spasms in the bronchi of the lungs causing difficulty breathing
• It causes the airways to swell and narrow, resulting in wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing
• If it is severe enough, it can lead to decreased activity and inability to talk

DISCOVERED

• First discovered around 460 BC
• A Greek physician named Hippocrates first described Asthma and its resulting spasms
• Galen, a Roman doctor, discovered that Asthma was due to bronchial obstruction in 130-201 AD

SIGNS/SYMPTOMS

• Frequent cough, especially at night
• Losing your breath easily
• Feeling very tired or weak when exercising
• Wheezing or coughing after exercise
• Feeling tired, easily upset, grouchy, or moody

TREATMENT

• Asthma is a long term disease that has no cure
• The goal of Asthma treatment is to control the disease
• The most common treatment is the inhaler