Asthma

Asthma is an inflammatory condition of the lungs where the walls of the airways in your lungs are inflamed and swollen.  This makes the muscles surrounding your airways very sensitive, so they tighten and constrict spontaneously.  In addition, membranes in your airway linings secrete excess mucus.  The result is narrowed airways and obstructed airflow that typically wheezing and shortness of breath.

Studies on asthma and allergies conducted by doctors in Singapore, revealed that the prevalence of asthma (20% in 1994, 21% in 2001) and allergies such as allergic rhinitis (45% in 1994, 38% in 2001) (sensitive, runny nose) and eczema (7% in 1994, 10% in 2001) (persistent itchy rash), have remained consistently high.

The prevalence of asthma and allergies in Singapore/Malaysia is comparable to that of many of our neighboring countries.  A possible family history of asthma and allergy is frequently present.

Possible signs and symptoms

commonly experienced symptoms of asthma include shortness of breath, chest tightness, wheezing and coughing.

Possible causes

caused or triggered by allergic and non-allergic factors, include seasonal pollens from things like trees, grasses, and ragweed, mode spores, dust mites animal danders, cockroaches, stress etc