Asthma is a respiratory disease that can be chronic or episodic. Occurs when the channels through which circulates the air we breathe swell and contract.

Although the classes of asthma are numerous, are divided into two groups: those caused by external agents and has the intrinsic origin.

Extrinsic asthma is caused by agents that cause allergic reactions in the patient. In this group include asthma attacks triggered by pollen, dust, environmental changes, odors, etc..

An over-reaction to fungi and bacteria are the main causes of intrinsic asthma, manifested especially in adults.

The most frequent is that asthma has its origins in a combination of extrinsic and intrinsic causes.

What is asthma?
Asthma is a chronic disease in which the walls of the airways narrow, making it difficult to breathe. It is a contagious disease.

The Asthma can strike anyone Recent statistics indicate that 11 out of 100 Puerto Rican children suffering from this disease and children 6 months to 11 years of age living in the United States are 2 to 4 times more likely to have asthma than the rest of American children (1). But asthma can be controlled with proper treatment and monitoring.

Is there any risk factors?
If a family member suffers from asthma have a high chance of developing the condition.

What are the most common symptoms of asthma?
When the airways become narrow develop symptoms such as:
* Shortness of breath
* Whistle when you breathe (cigarette, hoarseness)
* Chest tightness
It may have all, some or one of these symptoms. These can be mild or severe.

How can you control your asthma?
If asthma is not controlled can cause many problems. The Lack of the condition makes people miss work or class, and endangers his life. With your doctor can devise a treatment plan that will help control the condition.

* Visit your doctor for evaluation and design a treatment plan to follow.
* Adhere to the treatment. Take your medicines and follow the instructions that your doctor recommends.
* Stay away and avoid contact with the factors that may affect their health as dust, hair or animal dander, cigarette smoke, temperature changes (eg, hot to cold) without shelter.

What should I do if I have an emergency?
Do not lose control and make use of the medications your doctor has prescribed. If you understand that there is no improvement go to the nearest emergency room.