Asthma

Respiratory condition which is caused by constricting of airway vessels and excess mucus production causing shortness of breath, chest tightness, coughing, wheezing and mucus production. Common causes of Asthma are seasonal allergies, upper respiratory infections, cold weather, tobacco, chemical irritants/dust/fumes exposure, exercise and often genetic. Symptoms can be mild to life threatening requiring hospitalization even intubation. Diagnosis is usually done via spirometry or PFT (pulmonary function test). Treatment included long term corticosteroids inhalers like Advair, Flovent and Pulmicort, also leukotriene modifiers like montelukast (singulair) and short acting inhalers like Ventolin, Atrovent, Pro-Air.