Asthma

[...]it can be a major problem that interferes with daily activities and may lead to a life-threatening asthma attack. Because asthma often changes over time, it's important that you work with your doctor to track your signs and symptoms and adjust your treatment as needed. Exercise-induced asthma, which may be worse when the air is cold and dry Occupational asthma, triggered by workplace irritants such as chemical fumes, gases or dust Allergy-induced asthma, triggered by airborne substances, such as pollen, mold spores, cockroach waste, or particles of skin and dried saliva shed by pets (pet dander) When to see a doctorSeek emergency treatment Severe asthma attacks can be life-threatening. Airborne allergens, such as pollen, dust mites, mold spores, pet dander or particles of cockroach waste Respiratory infections, such as the common cold Physical activity Cold air Air pollutants and irritants, such as smoke Certain medications, including beta blockers, aspirin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and naproxen sodium (Aleve) Strong emotions and stress Sulfites and preservatives added to some types of foods and beverages, including shrimp, dried fruit, processed potatoes, beer and wine Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which stomach acids back up into your throat Risk factors A number of factors are thought to increase your chances of developing asthma. Signs and symptoms that interfere with sleep, work and other activities Sick days from work or school during asthma flare-ups A permanent narrowing of the tubes that carry air to and from your lungs (bronchial tubes), which affects how well you can breathe Emergency room visits and hospitalizations for severe asthma attacks Side effects from long-term use of some medications used to stabilize severe asthma Proper treatment makes a big difference in preventing both short-term and long-term complications caused by asthma.