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Article: Asthma; Facts to Know.(Disease/Disorder overview)
- Article from:
- NWHRC Health Center - Asthma
- Article date:
- July 13, 2005
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2005 National Women's Health Resource Center. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
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Asthma is a chronic lung condition caused by heightened sensitivity to various things in the environment, such as pollen, dust and smoke. Exposure to these "triggers" causes the air passages to become swollen and inflamed, causing the hallmark symptoms of an asthma "attack": increased mucous production, wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and difficulty breathing.
Asthma can't be cured but it can be controlled with a variety of medications. If not well controlled, asthma can be life threatening. Life-long management is necessary.
Asthma is one of the top 10 reasons for hospitalization in the U.S.
As many as 20.3 million Americans suffer from ...