Asthma is a condition in which the patient's airways are narrow and swell to produce extra mucus. This makes breathing difficult and in turn triggers coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. For some people, asthma is a minor problem, but for others it can be serious and life-threatening. Asthma can be cured and controlled; Because asthma is a progressive disease, make sure the patient works with the doctor so they can keep their asthma under control. “In the United States, more than 25 million people have asthma, 7 million of whom are children” (What Causes Asthma). If a patient has asthma, they may experience an asthma attack also called an asthma exacerbation. An asthma attack occurs when your airways become swollen and inflamed, the muscles around the airways contract, causing the bronchi to narrow and then causing an asthma attack. During an asthma attack, the patient may have coughing, wheezing, and difficulty catching their breath. A minor seizure can be treated at home, but a severe seizure can be life-threatening and require the patient to go to the emergency room. To stop an attack or prevent it, the patient must treat it early before the airways become inflamed. There is exercise-induced asthma, also called exercise-induced bronchospasm, which occurs during or after strenuous exercise or activity that produces coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath or difficulty catching your breath. If the patient is pregnant and has asthma, both the baby and the patient are at risk. If a patient is pregnant, she will need to know how to avoid triggers. If a patient's asthma is controlled during pregnancy, there is little or no risk to the baby, although if it is not controlled, the patient may experience increased problems such as oxygen... ... middle of paper ...... fast-acting asthma inhaler some side effects of this medication more commonly include tremors, tremors, or tremors of the hands and feet; less common: fast, irregular, pounding, or racing heartbeat or pulse; rare - hives or welts, rash, swelling of the mouth or throat and difficulty breathing. Another asthma medication is Advair, a long-acting asthma inhaler with some side effects such as the most common, blurred vision, eye pain, hives or welts, sore throat and swollen glands; Some unknown side effects include bruising, decreased height, difficulty moving, fractures, and muscle wasting. (Advair Diskus Side Effects) Asthma is a chronic disease that restricts the patient's airways and prevents them from breathing at their maximum capacity. The severity of asthma varies, but regardless, the patient should talk to a doctor and find treatment that suits them..