Living Well With Asthma
Now that your asthma is diagnosed, you’re probably wondering how it
will impact your day-to-day living. The good news is that with proper
care and treatment, almost all people with asthma live full, active lives.
At the same time, it’s important to remember that asthma is a serious
disease that kills 10 people a day in the United States. While usually
mild, its symptoms will vary from episode to episode and can turn lifethreatening in moments.
Asthma begins with inflammation: the airways become swollen,
inflamed, and clogged with mucus and fluid. Muscles surrounding the
airways tighten and contract as they try to keep the passageways
open. Inhaled allergens or irritants, such as secondhand smoke and air
pollution, act like sandpaper on the raw surfaces. You begin to cough
and wheeze as you struggle to breathe. This is called bronchospasm.
Your health-care provider is committed to helping you manage your
asthma, which is why he or she has given you this practical guide to
Living Well With Asthma. In this guide, we’ll explain the common
triggers for asthma, how you can control and/or reduce your symptoms,
and the best medical options to help you keep your asthma in check.
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