Asthma is a common lung disease that affects both children and adults. The disease causes the airways of the lungs to become narrowed or even blocked, making breathing very difficult. Close to 20 million Americans are affected by asthma. Generally, asthma is divided into two categories, allergic and non-allergic. Allergic asthma or extrinsic asthma is triggered by an allergic reaction to something. The allergic reaction is partially treatable with the right medicine. Nearly 50% of Americans suffering from asthma have allergic asthma. Symptoms include coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing and chest tightness. Triggers include dust mites, pollen, mold and other inhaled allergens. Things like cold air, anxiety, stress and exercise bring on non-allergic or intrinsic asthma. Symptoms of non-allergic asthma are very similar to allergic asthma. Again, the airway is obstructed and inflammation occurs and is partially treatable. The immune system is not affected by non-allergic asthma. There are many myths surrounding asthma. Therefore, it is important to know the facts about asthma. Asthma is not curable but rather treatable. The first step in dealing with asthma attacks is to be properly diagnosed by a doctor. Once you have been formally diagnosed with asthma, your doctor will find a treatment regimen that works best for you. Although there are hundreds of asthma medications on the market, there are two basic categories. There are controller medicines, ones that are used to manage the symptoms and quick relief medicines, ones that are used when an asthma attack occurs. With a few simple steps, you can control your asthma. First, get away from what is triggering the asthma attack. Whether it is pollen, mold, dust mites or smoke, try to get away from it. Next, judge how severe the attack is. Sometimes you might be able to judge the attack solely on how you feel. But a more accurate assessment is to measure your exhales on a peak flow meter. After you have assessed the severity of the attack, try to suppress the inflammation. You will need to treat the constricted muscles and the overproduction of mucus. For a severe attack, you may need a prescription steroid. Be sure to know when to call for help. Asthma attacks that are severe can be very dangerous. If after taking the first few steps, you don't feel better, seek help from your doctor or call 911. SUMMARY: There are many myths surrounding asthma. However, if you know the truth about asthma, it can help save your life and make living with it a lot easier.
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