Asthma is a chronic lung disease that inflames and narrows the airways. More than 23 million Americans suffer from asthma, according to the American Lung Association.
Causes
The exact cause or origin of asthma remains unknown, says the Mayo Clinic. Consequently, there is no cure for this lung disease.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of asthma are shortness of breath, coughing, chest tightness or pain and wheezing. Trouble sleeping, exercising, and breathing can be secondary signs and symptoms of asthma.
Treatment Summary
Since there is no cure for asthma, treatments are designed to control the symptoms and vary from person to person. Doctors will also design an asthma action plan to guide individuals who must live with asthma.
Asthma Action Plan
According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, asthma action plans are designed to provide guidance to individuals regarding the proper use of medications, factors that worsen asthma, controlling asthma and when its time to seek medical attention.
Types of Treatment
There are two types of treatments for asthma: long-term control medicines and quick-relief medicines. Long-term medicines are designed reduce airway inflammation and quick-relief medicines are used to provide immediate relief for symptom flare-ups.
