Asthma: A Lung Disease

            Tammy is a 17-year-old girl who was just diagnosed with asthma. She is a cheerleader for her high school and is very busy with social events throughout the year. Next year Tammy will attend View University on a cheerleading scholarship. She is very excited, but is a little nervous about living away from home. Lately she has been having trouble controlling her asthma. This paper will discuss pathogenesis of asthma, normal functioning of the respiratory system, the signs and symptoms of asthma, and the effects asthma has on the rest of the body. .
             Definition of Asthma.
             Asthma is a disease that affects the lungs. Asthma is a condition in which your airways narrow and swell and produce extra mucus. This can make breathing difficult and trigger coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. For some people, asthma is a minor nuisance. For others, it can be a major problem that interferes with daily activities and may lead to a life-threatening asthma attack. (Mayo Clinic, 2014) It isn't clear why some people get asthma and others don't, but it's probably due to a combination of environmental and genetic (inherited) factors. Exposure to various substances that trigger allergies (allergens) and irritants can trigger signs and symptoms of asthma. Asthma triggers are different from person to person and can include: Airborne allergens, such as pollen, animal dander, mold, cockroaches and dust mites, respiratory infections, such as the common cold, physical activity (exercise-induced asthma), cold air, air pollutants and irritants, such as smoke, certain medications, including beta blockers, aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and naproxen (Aleve), strong emotions and stress, sulfites and preservatives added to some types of foods and beverages, including shrimp, dried fruit, processed potatoes, beer and wine, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which stomach acids back up into your throat, and/or menstrual cycle in some women.