Asthma
Content Outline
 

                I. Definitions

                        A. Asthma

                        B. Epidemic

                        C. Irritants

                        D. Allergens

                        E. Triggers

                        F. Status Asthmaticus
 

               II. Causes

                        A. Hereditary    

                        B. Environmental

              III. Triggers
                        A. Indoors

                                1. Irritants

                                        a. Tobacco smoke

                                        b. Smoke from wood-burning stoves and fireplaces

                                        c. Aerosol sprays

                                        d. Cockroaches, rats and mice

                                        e. Pesticides

                                        f. Household cleaning products                                               

                                2. Allergens

                                        a. Dust, dust mites and mite feces in rugs

                                        b. Cockroaches and cockroach dung

                                        c. Mold and mildew

                                        d. Pet fur, dander (skin), saliva and urine

                        B. Outdoors

                                1. Irritants

                                        a. Car exhaust and diesel emissions

                                        b. Smog

                                        c. Pesticides

                                2. Allergens

                                        a. Plant pollens and molds

                        C. Viral respiratory infections and colds

                        D. Strenuous exercise

                        E. Emotional stress
   

            IV. Warning signs

                        A. A feeling of tightness in the chest

                        B. Rapid breathing or shortness of breath

                        C. Itchy chin or neck

                        D. Red or watery eyes or dark circles under eyes

                        E. Coughing or wheezing 
 

            V. Treatment and management of asthma

                        A. Identify your triggers    

                        B. Keep your house clean

                        C. Follow your doctor's recommendations

                        D. Medications and prescriptions

                                1. Rescue type                           

                                2. Maintenance type
 

           VI. Community Resources