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Overview of Asthma 
Asthma is a chronic disease varcharacterized by recurrent attacks of wheezing and shortness of breath. It occurs 50% more often in children under age 10 (boys with asthma outnumber girls). In adult-onset asthma, women are more often affected than men.
Causes of Asthma
An inflammation of the air passages (bronchi and bronchioles), followed by spasm, swelling of the passages and thickening of lung secretions (sputum). This effectively decreases or closes off air to the lungs. These changes in the lung are caused by allergens such as pollen, dust, animal dander, molds and some foods As well as lung infections such as bronchitis, and air irritants, such as smoke and odors. Exposure to occupational chemicals or other materials, may also cause asthma.
Signs and Symptoms of Asthma
Symptoms include: chest tightness, shortness of breath, wheezing upon breathing out, coughing, especially at night, occasionally with thick, clear or yellow sputum, rapid, shallow breathing that is eased with sitting up, breathing difficulty, and tighten neck muscles
Severe symptoms of acute attack often reflect the lack of oxygen getting to the body and the difficulty exchanging air in the lungs. There is bluish skin, exhaustion, grunting respiration, inability to speak, mental changes, including restlessness or confusion.
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