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WHAT IS ASTHMA?
Asthma is a long-term (chronic) lung disease that causes episodes of coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. Like all chronic illnesses, asthma cannot be cured, but it is very manageable.
For some people, asthma is a minor nuisance. For others, it can be a major problem that interferes with daily activities and may lead to a life-threatening asthma attack.
COMMON SYMPTOMS:
- Coughing: Coughing from asthma is often worse at night or early morning. Sometimes it’s your only symptom. It can be dry or mucus-filled.
- Wheezing: This is a whistling or squeaky sound especially when you breathe out. Sometimes wheezing can be heard easily; other times you need a stethoscope.
- Chest tightness: This can feel like something is squeezing or sitting on your chest.
- Shortness of breath: You may feel breathless, like you can’t catch your breath or breathe deeply enough. You may feel as though you are out of shape and constantly tired.
17.7 Million
Adults Have Asthma
6.3 Million
Children Have Asthma
(under age 18 years)
10.5 Million
Physician Office Visits with Asthma as the Primary Diagnosis
1.8 Million
Emergency Department Visits
In 2008, children aged 5–17 years who had one or more asthma attacks in the previous 12 months missed 10.5 million days of school. Adults who were employed and had one or more asthma attacks during the previous 12 months missed 14.2 million days of work due to asthma.