What is Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease that reduces or blocks normal air flow in the lungs.  There is no cure for asthma but it can be managed through education and proper medication.  Asthma can be fatal and can occur at any time in life.  It is not contagious but can run in families.

Symptoms of Asthma:

Shortness of breath, chest tightness, coughing, and wheezing.

Asthma Triggers:

Asthma is generally triggered by allergens or irritants such as smoking, dust, pet dander, exercise, pollen, perfume, air pollution, respiratory infections, anxiety, and cold weather.

Your Asthma is NOT under control if:

• You use your quick relief inhaler more than two times a week

• You awaken at night with asthma symptoms more than two times a month

• You refill your quick relief inhaler prescription more than two times a year

Did You Know?

• Over 51,000 people in Merced and Mariposa Counties have asthma; more than 17,000 of them are children

• Asthma is the #1 cause of school absences

• 1 in 5 San Joaquin Valley children have been diagnosed with asthma