What is Asthma?

Asthma is a lung disease that inflames and narrows the airways. Asthma causes recurring periods of wheezing, coughing, chest tightness,
and shortness of breath.

Asthma is a chronic disease, like diabetes and high blood pressure. This means that once you develop asthma, you are likely to have it
for a lifetime. Even when you are feeling just fine, the asthma is still there and can flare up at any time. A chronic condition like asthma often requires daily attention.

What can trigger asthma?

Indoor and outdoor environments play an important role in
the development and management of asthma. Asthma triggers like allergens and
irritants can bring on asthma symptoms. Some common asthma triggers are: 

• Animal dander

• Dust mites- tiny bugs that thrive in mattresses, upholstered furniture, and carpets             

• Cockroaches and other pests      

• Pollen from trees and grass    

• Molds- both indoor and outdoor         

• Wood smoke from wood-burning stoves or fireplaces

• Cigarette smoke

• Air pollution including ozone, wildfire

• Smoke, road dust, and factory emissions  

• Cold air or changes in weather like freezing temperatures or high humidity

• Strong odors or sprays such as perfumes, air fresheners, scented oils, household cleaners, cooking fumes, paints, or varnishes

How can you keep your asthma under control?    

• Take medicines as prescribed by your doctor

• Avoid Asthma Triggers

• Quit Smoking 

• Monitor your asthma

• Work with your doctor or healthcare provider to create an Asthma Action Plan  

By working closely with your doctor or healthcare provider, you should be able to learn how to control your asthma. Once it is controlled, you should be able to live a normal active life with few asthma symptoms. 

American Lung Association- Idaho

Idaho Smoke Information Blog

IDEQ Real-Time Air Monitoring

Idaho Wellness Guide 

Project Filter- Idaho Fights Tobacco

CDC- Asthma

EPA- Asthma

Children and Asthma 

Work-Related Asthma