For so many people around the world, the symptoms of asthma - wheezing, coughing and breathlessness have become a way of life. The American Lung Association puts asthma down as the seventh-ranked chronic health condition in the United States and the leading chronic illness in children. It is estimated that 23.2 million Americans suffer from asthma. Large numbers of people are hospitalized each year in addition to a significant number of deaths, resulting in health care costs of a whopping $14.5 billion for asthma treatment.

Asthma is a respiratory system disease. The name is derived from a Greek word that means 'panting'. The air passages narrow, causing shortness of breath, a tight feeling in the chest, wheezing and sometimes a severe cough. Severe asthma attacks can lead to respiratory arrest and even death

Both the causes and triggers for asthma are multiple. An asthma attack occurs when the airway is irritated resulting in broncho-constriction or constriction of the passage to the lungs. Examples of triggers include sudden exposure to cold air and allergens, heavy exercise or even emotional stress.

Many people have a predisposition to asthma, some develop allergies to pollen, smoke, foods, perfumes, chemicals, animal fur, insects, sudden weather changes and biological contaminants such as mold. Stress and viral infections can also be causative factors in the development of asthma. Today one of the leading causes is thought to be pollution, though this has not been proved conclusively.

An oversensitive immune system also known as atopy is a common feature of those that suffer from asthma. Usually the immune system protects the body against harmful substances such as bacteria and viruses. Sometimes it reacts to normally harmless things like dander, dust, mold, strong smelling perfume and pollen, even chemicals such as bleach and other pollutants. It has been observed that children of smokers tend to suffer from chronic asthma thanks to second hand smoke. The chances of allergies increase with hot, dry and windy weather. Most asthma sufferers are able to predict roughly when the asthma attack would come on as it is usually during a particular time of year.

There are things that can be done to assist in the treatment of asthma and allergic reactions. The wearing of masks during the pollen season or when working with chemicals or pollutants may be beneficial. Keeping the windows shut and removing indoor plants has also helped. For those who are allergic to dander, ensuring your home is pet-free and using synthetic materials for bedding is advisable. Changing air filters in heating and air conditioning systems frequently and regular vacuuming will help to combat asthma. Regular checks for molds and fungal growth in the home are a must as they are notorious for triggering an attack.

A better understanding of the condition can be useful in the treatment of asthma. Asthma inhalers or bronchodilators are the most preferred form of medication for immediate relief. Antihistamines are also used to treat allergic symptoms. In extreme cases, cortisones are prescribed. Some prefer natural therapies such homeopathy or acupuncture. For chronic suffers, regular breathing exercises such as those practiced in yoga maybe helpful. Care should be taken not to overdo any form of physical activity as this could trigger off "exercise-induced" asthma.

A number of dietary factors have been implicated in the prevention and causes of asthma however conclusive evidence is lacking. There is increasing recognition of an association between obesity and asthma particularly in children - the exact nature has yet to be established however achieving an ideal body weight is likely to be helpful.

Some studies suggest a diet rich in antioxidants such as vitamin C and E maybe associated with decreased occurance or severity of asthma. Medical researchers observed that asthmatics have high levels of oxidants and low levels of antioxidants in their diet. In a sample study it was seen that those who suffer from asthma usually have a lowest intake of fresh fruit and raw vegetables. A role for Omega 3 fatty acids has also been postulated due to their anti-inflammatory action.

Conclusive evidence is lacking but a balanced diet high in fruit and vegetables and oily fish may be helpful in the treatment of asthma.