Find An Allergist / Immunologist | Pollen Levels | Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology | Annual Meeting   Site Map   Contact   Home    Search
Patients & Consumers Featured Resources Diseases 101 Drug Guide Find an Allergist / Immunologist Pollen Levels En Español Just for Kids Publications for Patients Referral Guidelines Request a Speaker New Research School Tools Search by Condition (A-Z) Seniors Useful Links Contact Us Donate Now Request a Speaker Smoke Free Homes Referral Guidelines Other Resources En Español Just for Kids Seniors Allergy & Asthma Issues Educational Brochures Elements of Allergy and Asthma Order Public Education Materials		Adult Asthma Asthma is a chronic disease that affects about 20 million Americans. Its primary cause is inflamed airways in the lungs. This inflammation makes the airways smaller, which makes it more difficult for air to move in and out of the lungs. Signs that you might have asthma include: Coughing Wheezing Shortness of breath Chest tightness Many people have "allergic asthma," which means that allergens - like dust mites, mold, animal dander, pollen and cockroaches - make their symptoms worse. Other things that can affect adult asthma include: Pregnancy: Uncontrolled asthma can harm the health of a mother and her baby. Work situations: Fumes, gases or dust that are inhaled at work can trigger asthma. Age: Older people with asthma face unique health challenges. Exercise: Some people may have asthma symptoms when they exercise. Medications: Medications like aspirin and ibuprofen, or beta-blockers (used to treat heart disease, high blood pressure, migraine headaches or glaucoma), may cause an asthma attack in some adults. If you think you have asthma, you should talk to an allergist/immunologist - a doctor with special training to manage allergies and asthma. An allergist can help you develop a treatment plan. To find an allergist/immunologist near you, use the AAAAI Physician Referral Directory. More Information about Adult Asthma Other Diseases Related to Asthma How to Help Your Allergies and Asthma (PDF) How to Help Your Allergies and Asthma (Español) (PDF) Referral Guidelines - Asthma Other Resources Drug Guide Tips to Remember Elements of Allergy and Asthma Allergy and Asthma Resources en Español Patient Support Organizations The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America <back>
		© 1996-2009 · All Rights Reserved · American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology Disclaimers and Contact Information