Asthma is a chronic condition that affects the airways in the lungs. The airways are tubes that carry air in and out of your lungs, and if you have asthma, they can become inflamed and narrowed at times, making it harder for air to flow out when you breathe. About 1 in 13 people in the United States have asthma, and it affects individuals of all ages, often beginning in childhood.
While there is no cure for asthma, treatment and an asthma action plan can help you manage the condition. This plan may include monitoring your symptoms, avoiding triggers, and using prescribed medications. Resources such as asthma guides, tip sheets, and other helpful information can be found through the NHLBI’s Learn More Breathe Better® Asthma program.
It is important for individuals with asthma to understand the basic facts about the condition and how it impacts their airways. By educating oneself on asthma and its triggers, individuals can better manage their symptoms and reduce the likelihood of asthma attacks. With the right knowledge and tools, individuals with asthma can effectively control the condition and improve their quality of life.
