It is estimated that more than 20 million Americans suffer the popular breathing problem by the name of asthma. The fact that this disease can affect both the adult population and the children makes it more of a concern especially to the health industry. Medical professionals and experts have paid particular concern to this disease because of the increasing trend of population who are suffering from this respiratory disorder.

We are all aware that air passes from the upper respiratory tract to the larynx, trachea, bronchi down to the lungs and further into the bronchioles and alveoli. This is the normal airway pattern in the normal physiology of the respiratory system.

In asthma, the airways wherein air passes through constricts or narrows due to inflammation. Because of inflammation, airway becomes tensed and the epithelial cells start producing mucus secretions which further obstruct the passage of air into the airway. And because of the force of the air against the constricted passageway, plus the mucus inside, the person suffering from asthma may be auscultated with wheezes (a high pitch sound upon inspiration). These occurrences of asthma are usually called asthma attacks, asthma flare ups or spells.

People suffering from asthma are particularly aware of the fact that their breathing is greatly affected with this problem. In fact, even without any asthma attacks, their normal breathing pattern is already altered. They also become very cautious about their surroundings because their asthma can flare up any moment they get contact with an allergen. Allergens can be anything that triggers an asthma attack- this may include smokes, pollens, animal furs, perfumes and the like. Allergens are not constant for all people suffering from asthma; others may consider something to be the cause of their asthma attacks while others may not.

Because of their sensitivity to allergens and irritants, asthma patients must learn how to monitor and take note of their condition, the frequency of their asthma attacks and how severe each attack is. Taking note of these facts can help the medical professional choose the best and most appropriate medical intervention for each person.

Commonly, asthma is treated with two general kinds of anti-asthma drugs. First are the controller medications. These controller medications are used in long or relatively short terms. As the term suggests, these medicines control the person from having usual flare ups. These are like maintenance drugs which serve as prophylactic treatments for asthma patients.

The second types are the rescue drugs. These rescue drugs provide immediate relief in moments of asthma attacks. These rescue drugs may come in the form of inhalers, spacers and the likes. Both the controller and rescue drugs may be composed of bronchodilators. These bronchodilators help relax the airway and subsequently widen them to facilitate proper passage of air in the lungs.

Persons making use of these drugs, however, should be cautious of developing side effects and oftentimes serious adverse effects. It is always best to consult your doctor about these things as these medical professionals can properly manage your asthma and help you in avoiding other asthma related complications. But before you go visit a doctor, be aware you have a good health insurance that can cover your costs. If you don't already have one you don't have to worry because a lot of insurance companies offer free health insurance quotes.