Asthma is a condition that occurs when the airways in your lungs (called bronchial tubes) have swelling (inflamed) and become constricted. The muscles of the bronchial walls tighten, and the airways produce extra secretions of mucus that blocks the airways. The signs and symptoms of asthma can range from minor wheezing to life-threatening asthma attacks.

Asthma can't be cured, but its symptoms can be controlled. Management includes avoiding asthma triggers and tracking the symptoms. Patients may need to regularly take long-term control medications to prevent flare-ups and short-term "rescue" medications to control symptoms once they start. Asthma that is not under control can cause missed school and work or reduced productivity due to symptoms. Because in most people asthma changes over time, you'll need to work closely with your doctor to track your signs and symptoms and adjust your treatment as needed

It isn't clear why some people get asthma and others don't, but it's probably due to a combination of environmental and genetic (inherited) factors.

Asthma triggers are different from person to person. Exposure to various allergens and irritants can trigger signs and symptoms of asthma, including:

• Airborne allergens, such as pollen, animal dander, mold, cockroaches and dust mites
• Respiratory infections, such as the common cold
• Physical activity (exercise-induced asthma
• Cold air
• Air pollutants and irritants such as smoke
• Certain medications, including beta blockers, aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• Strong emotions and stress
• Sulfites, preservatives added to some perishable foods
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which stomach acids back up into your throat
• Menstrual cycle in some wome
• Allergic reactions to foods such as peanuts or shellfish

The signs and symptoms of Asthma range from minor to severe, and can vary from person to person. A patient may have mild symptoms such as occasional wheezing, with occasional asthma attacks. Between two episodes he/she may feel normal and have no trouble breathing.

Alternatively someone may have signs and symptoms such as coughing and wheezing all the time or have symptoms primarily at night or only during exercise

Some common signs and symptoms of Asthma include:

• Shortness of breath
• Tightness in Chest or pain
• Troubled sleep caused by shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing
• An audible whistling or wheezing sound when breathing out
• Bouts of coughing or wheezing that are worsened by a respiratory virus such as a cold or the flu

Signs that your asthma is probably getting worse include:

• An increase in the severity and frequency of the various signs and symptoms of Asthma
• A fall in peak flow rates as measured by a peak flow meter, which is a simple device used to check how well your lungs are working
• An increased need to use bronchodilators - these are medications that open up airways by relaxing the surrounding muscles

A patient may have to consult with a doctor to determine if they need to increase medications or take other steps to treat symptoms of worsening asthma and get asthma back under control.

If Asthma keeps getting worse, you may need a trip to the emergency room. Your doctor can help you learn to recognize emergency signs and symptoms so you'll know when to get help.

You will have to work together with a doctor or a management team to design a step-by-step plan for living with the condition and preventing asthma attacks

• Develop a written asthma plan: Write a detailed plan for taking maintenance medications and managing an acute attack. Then be sure to follow your plan. Asthma is an ongoing condition that needs regular monitoring and treatment. Taking control of your treatment can make you feel more in control of your life in general.

• Identify and avoid asthma triggers: A number of outdoor allergens and irritants - ranging from pollen and mold to cold air and air pollution - can trigger asthma attacks. Find out what causes or worsens your asthma, and take steps to avoid those triggers.

• Monitor your breathing: You may learn to recognize warning signs of an impending attack, such as slight coughing, wheezing or shortness of breath. But because your lung function may decrease before you notice any signs or symptoms, regularly measure your peak airflow with a home peak flow meter.

• Identify and treat attacks early: If you act quickly, you're less likely to have a severe attack. You also won't need as much medication to control your symptoms. When your peak flow measurements decrease and alert you to an impending attack, take your medication as instructed and immediately stop any activity that may have triggered the attack. If your symptoms don't improve, get medical help as directed in your action plan.

• Don't let up on your medication program: Just because your asthma seems to be improving, don't change anything without first talking to your doctor. It's a good idea to bring your medications with you to each doctor visit, so your doctor can double-check that you're using your medications correctly and taking the right dose.

Taking steps to reduce your exposure to things that trigger asthma symptoms is a key part of asthma control. Here are some things that may help:

Use an air conditioner: Air conditioning helps reduce the amount of airborne pollen from trees, grasses and weeds that come indoors. Air conditioning also lowers indoor humidity and can reduce your exposure to dust mites. If you don't have air conditioning, try to keep your windows closed during pollen season.

Decontaminate your décor: Minimize dust that may aggravate nighttime symptoms by replacing certain items in your bedroom. For example, encase pillows, mattresses and box springs in dust-proof covers. Remove carpeting and install hardwood or linoleum flooring. Use washable curtains and blinds.

Maintain optimal humidity: Keep humidity low in your home and office. If you live in a damp climate, talk to your doctor about using a dehumidifier.

Keep indoor air clean: Have a utility company check your air conditioner and furnace once a year. Change the filters in your furnace and air conditioner according to the manufacturer's instructions. Also consider installing a small-particle filter in your ventilation system. If you use a humidifier, change the water daily.

Reduce pet dander: If you're allergic to dander, avoid pets with fur or feathers. Having pets regularly bathed or groomed also may reduce the amount of dander in your surroundings.

Clean regularly: Clean your home at least once a week. If you're likely to stir up dust, wear a mask or have someone else do the cleaning.

Face mask: If your asthma is worsened by cold, dry air, wearing a face mask can help.