At Mayo Clinic, we take the time to listen, to find answers and to provide you the best care.<\/p>\n
Learn more. Request an appointment.<\/span><\/a>
<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n Asthma can’t be cured, but its symptoms can be controlled. Because asthma often changes over time, it’s important that you work with your doctor to track your signs and symptoms and adjust treatment as needed.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n 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:<\/p>\n
Asthma symptoms range from minor to severe and vary from person to person. You may have infrequent asthma attacks, have symptoms only at certain times — such as when exercising — or have symptoms all the time.<\/p>\n Asthma signs and symptoms include:<\/p>\n Signs that your asthma is probably worsening include:<\/p>\n For some people, asthma symptoms flare up in certain situations:<\/p>\n Severe asthma attacks can be life-threatening. Work with your doctor ahead of time to determine what to do when your signs and symptoms worsen — and when you need emergency treatment. Signs of an asthma emergency include:<\/p>\n See your doctor:<\/p>\n
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<\/p>\nCAUSES<\/h2>\n
Asthma triggers<\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\nSYMPTOMS<\/h2>\n
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When to see a doctor<\/h3>\n
Seek emergency treatment<\/h4>\n
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Contact your doctor<\/h4>\n
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