Asthma is a chronic condition in which the lining of the airways in the lungs is inflamed, swollen and extra sensitive to things we breathe in (triggers). Common asthma triggers include pollen, dust mites, tobacco smoke, cold air and pet dander. Colds and flu can also worsen asthma. After exposure to a trigger, the muscles around the outside of the airways tighten. As the airways narrow and mucus builds up, breathing becomes more difficult. Asthma symptoms include chronic cough (mild or severe), shortness of breath, chest tightness, and wheezing. A morning cough is a common symptom. Untreated or poorly controlled asthma can lead to an emergency or even death.

Over time, people with asthma often become accustomed to their asthma symptoms and may

accept them as being normal. However, these symptoms are a sign that asthma is not well controlled and needs to be treated. Acceptable control of asthma usually means:

*    daytime symptoms less than 4 days per week;

*    night-time symptoms less than once a week;

*    symptoms do not interfere with work, school or physical activity;

*    any attacks You have are mild and infrequent;

*    you have little or no need for your symptom-relief (reliever) medication (no more than 3 doses per week).

To help you see how well you are reaching these goals, discuss any questions with your doctor, pharmacist or asthma educator.

CONTROLLING ASTHMA

*    To achieve good asthma control, you should:

*    know and avoid your asthma triggers;

*    recognize and treat asthma attacks promptly;

*    use your reliever and/or controller medication correctly as prescribed;

*    be able to understand your treatment well enough to adjust your own medication with appropriate guidance from your doctor pharmacist or asthma educator.

There are two main types of asthma medication:

SYMPTOM-RELIEF MEDICATIONS (RELIEVERS)

These medications, also known as bronchodilators, quickly and temporarily open up your airways to relieve asthma symptoms. They can treat mild symptoms, and can be used before exercise.

ASTHMA CONTROL MEDICATIONS

(CONTROLLERS OR PREVENTERS)

These medications include inhaled corticosteroids, long-acting bronchodilators, and leukotriene receptor antagonists. Taking these medications every day, even if you have no symptoms, controls airway inflammation and may reduce the frequency and severity of attacks and the need for reliever medication. Controllers do not relieve symptoms during an attack

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