Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the airways and is associated with respiratory symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness and coughing, which vary over time. It is a common disease affecting about 10 - 20% of the population and individuals of all ages, and is often erroneously called allergic bronchitis. The bronchi are the paths through which the air we breathe enters and exits. In asthma, there is an inflammation of the bronchi, which swell and narrow making the passage of air more difficult because of the reduced diameter of the bronchi.

This narrowing is due to:

• bruising of the bronchi wall caused by inflammation;
• contraction of the muscles that are around the bronchi;
• an increase in the production of sputum (phlegm), also caused by inflammation.

It is important to know how to live with asthma!

Asthma sufferers and their family should know the causes and consequences of asthma, in order to ensure a normal life through its control.

Asthma can be controlled with proper treatment, allowing the lung to function normally. Thus asthma sufferers can lead an active life.