Asthma is a choric lung disease that causes inflammation in the airways. It can cause many symptoms, including coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness and more. Here are the facts about asthma:

• Emotions can trigger asthma. When someone gets anxious or angry, they breathe faster, which can set off an asthma attack. Inflammatory chemicals are produced with these. Crying, laughing, fear and stress can also be triggers for an attack.
• Children with asthma may change asthma stats, but it never goes away. According to studies, most children improve asthma by the time they start school. For some, it may come back later in life. About 7 million children have asthma. It’s important to make sure your child sees their doctor and has an action plan if they are diagnosed with asthma.
• Many people with asthma suffer from allergies. After breathing in allergens, asthma flare-ups may occur. Allergy testing should always be done with asthma. Breathing in other irritants such as smoke, sprays, cold air or perfumes and colognes can also trigger asthma attacks.
• Rescue inhalers are used for temporary relief with asthma symptoms. If you suffer from symptoms “three or more times a week” or “three or more times a month at night” (Webmd), then you should talk with your physician about getting on long term asthma medications.
• Just because you have asthma doesn’t mean you can’t exercise. If you are on an asthma treatment plan with medications, you can still exercise, with no limitations or restrictions. Breathing muscles are strengthened by exercising. Chest tightness can be reduced by warming up pre workout and cooling down post workout (Webmd). When it’s cold outside or the pollen count is high, try to exercise indoors.
• Asthma has many symptoms, but sometimes people only show one, such as coughing. A cough that won’t go away is a symptom of asthma. Other symptoms include chest tightness, shortness of breath and wheezing. If you experience any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with your physician. They may refer you to a specialist for more testing and a long term treatment plan.
• Being overweight can put you at a higher risk of having asthma. Obesity can cause airways to narrow (Webmd), which can lead to asthma. Obesity is also connected with inflammation which can occur in the lungs. This can also lead to asthma.
• Sinus infections often lead to asthma attacks. Colds, the flu and sinus infections can irritate airways which can trigger asthma (Webmd). If you have asthma you should wash your hands often and get a flu shot.

If you experience any symptoms of asthma, contact your physician or an allergist. It is best to get tested and have an action plan with medications sooner rather than later. You don’t have to suffer from asthma and allergies!