5.9 ASTHMA

Question 1

What is asthma?

Answer 1

A disease in which you struggle to breathe in and out, as well as can’t get enough oxygen to remove toxic carbon dioxide.

Question 2

What happens to airways during an asthma attack?

Answer 2

The airway is very narrow due to muscles contracting, lots of extra mucus, and swollen lining.

Question 3

What are the causes/triggers of asthma? (12)

Answer 3

1. Pollen
2. Smoking
3. Infections
4. Stress
5. Food allergies
6. Air pollution
7. Exercise
8. Mould
9. Medicines
10. Dust mite
11. Pets
12. Cold air

Question 4

What are the symptoms of asthma?

Answer 4

1. Wheezing
2. Coughing at night which disturbs sleep
3. Shortness of breath
4. Tight feeling in chest
5. Difficulty breathing

Question 5

What are the treatments for asthma?

Answer 5

1. Relievers
   - Relax the muscles around the bronchi
2. Preventers
   - Making airways less sensitive

Question 6

How do inhalers deliver the asthma medicine so they work well?

Answer 6

Inhalers deliver medicines to the airway to stop muscle contraction and swelling.