.   .   .     Asthma Awareness    .   .   .

Asthma is the most common chronic illness of children affecting more than 75,000 children in Connecticut .   Children with asthma have higher rates of school absences and typically miss  10 school days per year due to the disease. Children living in a household with a smoker have a 44% greater risk of developing asthma.  Children and adults who are obese also have higher rates of the disease. . Nationally, asthma kills 14 people a day.

Asthma is a chronic lung disease. During an asthma attack, sensitive airways become inflamed and narrowed causing difficulty in breathing. Common symptoms include cough, wheezing, shortness of breath and chest tightness. 
Asthma attacks can be triggered by:

• Colds and the flu

• Cigarette smoke

• Dust

• Pets

• Mold

• Strong smells such as perfumes and cleaning products

• Vigorous exercise

With proper management, people with asthma can lead a normal, active life.

• Keep your home and car smoke free

• See your doctor regularly

• If you have asthma symptoms more than twice a week, you may benefit from daily use of controller medications.

• Make certain you know when and how to use your medication.

For more information, speak with your healthcare provider or contact the Torrington Area Health District (860)489-0436.

Additional resources are available online:

• National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute ...http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/about/naepp/index.htm   

• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ... http://www.epa.gov/asthma