1. What is Asthma?

What is Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways.

It cannot be cured, but it can be controlled.

Symptoms of Asthma

• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness
• Wheezing
• Frequent Coughing

What Happens During an Asthma Episode?

The airways that make up the lungs become swollen and fill with mucus.

The muscles around airways tighten in response to an asthma trigger.

Common Triggers of Asthma Attacks

Not all triggers affect all people. It is important to identify what affects a particular student’s asthma.

Common triggers includes:

• Infections or illness (i.e. common cold)
• Changes in the weather and environmental allergens
• Exercise
• Strong emotions
• Irritants such as smoke, pollution, scents, fumes and odours

Asthma Treatment

Asthma is treated by medications known as inhalers or puffers.