If your child has asthma, she is not alone. Asthma is the most common chronic disease of childhood affecting approximately five million children in the United States alone.

What is asthma?

• Asthma is a chronic (recurring) disorder caused by inflammation (swelling) of the airways.
• Inflammation in the lungs makes it difficult for air to flow through the lungs.
• Inflammation can also make air passages more sensitive to things that can trigger asthma.

What happens during an asthma attack?

• Air passages in the lungs become swollen, narrow and produce thick mucous.
• Muscles around the airways become tight.
• The tightening of the muscles, called bronchospasm, causes airways to become more narrow.

What are the symptoms of asthma?

• Coughing (for some children, coughing is the only symptom)
• Shortness of breath
• Tightness in the chest
• Wheezing

Some early clues that asthma may be developing:

• Breathing changes or coughing
• Feeling tired
• Trouble sleeping
• Less energy for exercise
• Dark circles under the eyes
• Chin or throat itchiness
• Lower peak flow meter numbers

Each child's symptoms are different. The early warning signs of asthma are important to know and watch for. This will help you be aware that an asthma episode may be developing and seek medical care if necessary.

What is an asthma trigger?

Two types of triggers can make your child's asthma worse: irritants and allergies.

Irritants are substances that bother the nose, throat, or airways. Common irritants include:

• Cigarette smoke: It is important that no one smokes in the home or car with a child who has asthma.
• Strong smells: Avoid aerosol sprays, perfumes and strong smelling cleaning solutions in your home. Try to clean when your child is not home
• Colds: Teach your child to wash her hands often. Many children with asthma should get the flu shot every year. Check with your child's doctor to see if this is right for your child.

Some common allergies include:

• Pets: Keep furry or feathered animals out of the home.
• Pests(mice, cockroaches): Keep the kitchen clean and all food in closed containers. A professional exterminator is the best way to control household pests.
• Dust mites: Wash bedding in hot water. Remove stuffed animals and toys from your child's bed. Try to dust and vacuum once a week while the child is not in the room. It may be helpful to put mite-proof covers on mattresses and pillows.
• Mold: Mold growth can be found on bathroom tiles, in basements and outdoors in soil, leaves, and compost piles. Diluted household bleach or Lysol can be used when cleaning to prevent mold build-up. Using a dehumidifier regularly will help prevent mold growth in your home. Avoid plants, aquariums and humidifiers in your child's room.
• Pollen: Keep windows and doors closed during high pollen seasons and use air conditioning with a filter that can be cleaned often. Shower and wash hair after being outside for a long time.