1. By: Matthew Medrana
8/20/13
Project

2. Asthma
A chronic (long-term) lung disease that narrows and inflames the airways.
Those with this disease have a difficult time breathing.

3. What are its symptoms? Chest tightness Shortness of breath Wheezing
Frequent coughing

4. What are its causes?
The exact cause of this disease is unknown but can still occur through numerous factors…
Environment
Ex.) contact with allergens and irritants
Airborne allergens
Ex.) mold, pollen
Smoking
Strenuous exercise
Respiratory infections
Ex.) common cold, bronchitis
Food allergies
Ex.) eggs, fish
Cold air
Genetics

5. What is its frequency or rate? (How common is this disease?)
Over 25 million people in the United States have been affected.
If one parent has asthma, 1/3 chance the child will have it.
If both parents have asthma, 7/10 chance the child will have it.
It could occur in any age based on numerous factors (refer to next slide).

6. What are the risk factors?
Being a smoker
Eating junk food
Exposure to secondhand smoke
Having a family member with asthma
Exposure to exhaust fumes or other kinds of pollution

7. How is the disease diagnosed?
Check your local healthcare provider or primary care doctor to determine the severity of asthma.
The disease will be checked based on the following (may not always occur depending on severity):
Medical and family histories
If you or family members have asthma, allergies, or another lung disease(s)
Physical exam
Doctor will check for signs, such as a runny nose, wheezing, or allergic skin conditions (including eczema)
Diagnostic tests
Lung function test, also known as spirometry, to see how much you breathe in and out
Other tests
Allergy tests, X-ray check (by the chest area), EKG (electrocardiogram), etc.

8. What is the treatment? Unfortunately, there’s no cure.
However it can be controlled through the following suggestions:
Meet with your doctor or health care providers for an asthma action plan.
Continue to stay physically active (make sure activity is not too strenuous).
Medicines that are prescribed by your doctor.

9. Additional Info.

10. And don’t forget… save a life!
References
And don’t forget… save a life!