Asthma is a chronic disease (one that cannot be cured). When you have asthma, the air passages in your lungs are very sensitive and can be inflamed and swollen. In addition, certain triggers can cause the muscles of the air passages to squeeze, resulting in narrowed air passages. This process is called bronchoconstriction. Triggers can also cause the air passages to produce extra mucus, making it harder to breathe.
  

 
The most common symptoms of an asthma attack are:

Chest tightness
Coughing
Shortness of breath
Wheezing

Sometimes coughing is the only symptom. Asthma symptoms often occur at night or during exercise, but they can occur at any time. (Note: Other conditions, such as respiratory infections, may also cause wheezing, especially in children. Talk to your doctor if you’re concerned.)
 

No one is sure what causes asthma, and, so far, there’s no cure for it. However, we know that asthma is a chronic inflammatory lung disorder that can be controlled. With asthma, substances or conditions called triggers cause air passages in the lungs to become inflamed and swollen. The air passages then become overly sensitive.
Any further irritation of these ultrasensitive air passages can lead to an asthma attack. This is when you feel symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness. Not all people with asthma wheeze. For some, coughing may be the only symptom of asthma. Asthma symptoms often occur at night and/or after exercise.
 

 
Common asthma triggers and tips for avoiding them
The following is a list of many common asthma triggers. Talk to your doctor if you’re concerned about how any of these triggers may affect you or your child.
Pollen
If you’re sensitive to pollen, stay indoors and keep windows closed on days when pollen counts are high. Don’t hang clothes or bedding outside because a light coating of pollen can stick to your laundry and end up back inside with you.
Dust mites
These microscopic creatures are some of the most common asthma triggers. They live in bedding, carpeting, and stuffed furniture. To reduce your exposure to them, cover your mattress and pillows with vinyl dust-proof cases.
Mold
If you react to mold, clean shower stalls and sinks regularly, and check for dampness in your basement. Try not to keep too many indoor plants because mold grows in moist soil.
Animals
Animal dander (skin particles) triggers asthma in many people. If you have asthma, it may be best not to have a pet. If you do have a pet, try to keep it outside the house, or at least away from where you sleep.
Cockroaches
For people who have asthma and live in the city, exposure to cockroaches may be a problem. Because many insecticides can also irritate asthma.
Colds and viruses
Colds, viruses, and sinus infections can trigger asthma or make it worse, especially in young children. Talk to your doctor about treating cold symptoms, and ask about getting a flu shot.
Emotions
Of course, emotions themselves don’t cause asthma. Crying and laughing, however, can change the way you breathe, which may actually trigger an attack.
Exercise and physical activity
Some people get asthma symptoms only when they exercise or do something physical, especially in cold, dry air. For many people with asthma, however, exercise may be only 1 of several triggers. If your asthma symptoms worsen when you exercise or are active, talk to your doctor. Also, be sure you understand how to take your medicine to reduce the risk of an attack or to treat an attack should one occur.
Medications
Some medicines can trigger an attack in some people. Ask your doctor if there are any medicines you should avoid.
Smoke
Tobacco smoke is a major cause of asthma symptoms in children and adults. Secondhand smoke is especially irritating to people with asthma. Don’t be afraid to ask people not to smoke around you; most will understand. Fortunately, many restaurants, offices, and public places are now smoke free.
 

Rescue medications

These work to quickly “rescue” you while you are experiencing asthma symptoms.
Short-acting beta agonists
Albuterol
Alupent
Maxair
Proventil s
Ventolin