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Asthma Health Center

Asthma Overview

Asthma makes breathing difficult for more than 34 million Americans. Asthma symptoms, which include coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness, are common in an asthma attack. Sometimes asthma is called bronchial asthma or reactive airway disease. Asthma in children is on the rise, but with proper treatment for symptoms of asthma, kids and adults can live well.

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Why Don't Some People With Asthma Respond to Medication?

All asthma is not the same. As a result, a new study shows many people with asthma are not helped by corticosteroid medication prescribed to control their breathing problems.

Asthma Symptoms

People with asthma experience symptoms when the airways tighten, inflame, or fill with mucus. Common asthma symptoms include:

  • Coughing, especially at night
  • Wheezing
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest tightness, pain, or pressure

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