Spirit Health Style Relationships Home Food Money World
1 of 6
All About Asthma

What Is Asthma?

Asthma is a problem in the airways, but the exact cause is unknown. The airways in a person with asthma are very sensitive and react to specific triggers, such as dust, tobacco smoke and even changes in the weather.

Symptoms of asthma vary from person to person but can include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.

Doctors use a number of tests to diagnose asthma, particularly lung function tests. A typical finding in people with asthma is that they have trouble quickly blowing out a full breath of air, which is picked up by lung function tests.

By Elisabeth Bergman; Reviewed by Michael W. Smith, MD

As a reminder, always consult your doctor for medical advice and treatment before starting any program.