Asthma

Asthma is a long-term condition where the airways become inflamed and narrow, causing wheezing, coughing and breathlessness. It is controlled with inhalers — usually a daily 'preventer' and a 'reliever' for symptoms — and by avoiding triggers.

Symptoms

• Wheezing
• Coughing, often at night or with exercise
• Breathlessness
• Chest tightness

When to see a doctor

• Frequent symptoms or night-time waking
• Needing the reliever inhaler often
• A severe attack with rapid breathing or blue lips is an emergency

FAQs

Is asthma curable?

There's no cure, but it is very controllable. With the right inhalers and trigger avoidance, most people have few or no symptoms.