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Patients & Consumers Conditions En Español Find an Allergist / Immunologist Just for Kids New Research Parent Resources Pollen Levels Publications Real Life Stories Request a Speaker School Tools Seniors The Virtual Allergist™ Treatments Videos Search by Condition (A-Z) Search by Topic Allergy & Asthma Issues Educational Brochures Elements of Allergy and Asthma Order Public Education Materials Wall Street Journal Washington Post Supplement Allergy Shots Drug Guide LABAs Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT)		Asthma Asthma is a chronic disease that affects about 20 million Americans. Its primary cause is inflamed airways in the lungs. This inflammation makes the airways smaller, which makes it more difficult for air to move in and out of the lungs. Asthma is the most common serious disease among children. Nine million children in the United States have asthma. Signs that you might have asthma include: Coughing Wheezing Shortness of breath Chest tightness Many people have "allergic asthma," which means that allergens - like dust mites, mold, animal dander, pollen and cockroaches - make their symptoms worse. Other things that can affect adult asthma include: Pregnancy: Uncontrolled asthma can harm the health of a mother and her baby. Work situations: Fumes, gases or dust that are inhaled at work can trigger asthma. Age: Older people with asthma face unique health challenges. Exercise: Some people may have asthma symptoms when they exercise. Medications: Medications like aspirin and ibuprofen, or beta-blockers (used to treat heart disease, high blood pressure, migraine headaches or glaucoma), may cause an asthma attack in some adults. If you think you have asthma, you should talk to an allergist/immunologist - a doctor with special training to manage allergies and asthma. An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan. To find an allergist/immunologist near you, use the AAAAI Physician Referral Directory. More Information about Adult Asthma Other Diseases Related to Asthma When to See an Allergist Find the Latest Research More Information about Childhood Asthma Childhood Asthma Cough in Children Find the latest research Other Resources Drug Guide Tips to Remember Elements of Allergy and Asthma Allergy and Asthma Resources en Español Patient Support Organizations <back>
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