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ASTHMA DESCRIPTION |
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Asthma is an inflammatory disease of the
bronchial tubes, the passageways that carry air in and out of the
lungs. The inflammation causes the airways to become swollen and
narrow, obstructing the flow of air. This leads to attacks of
wheezing and breathing difficulties, which are reversible. In Ireland, it is estimated that there are 274,000 asthma sufferers, affecting 10 to 15 percent of children and 5 to 10 percent of adults. Evidence suggests that the incidence and prevalence of asthma is increasing not just in Ireland but internationally. While asthma usually begins in childhood or adolescence, it may first appear during adulthood. The most common type of asthma in children is allergic asthma. It is characterised by sensitivity towards allergens such as dust mites and air pollutants. It is associated with allergic rhinitis (inflammation of the nasal passages) and eczema. Children usually grow out of this type of asthma by adolescence. Sometimes, asthma can appear for the first time in adulthood. Twenty-five out of every 100 asthma sufferers experience their first attack after age 35. Adult asthma is referred to as Non-Allergic Asthma because it is more likely to be caused by sensitivity following a severe irritation of the lungs, such as a prolonged viral infection. Exposure to certain chemicals in the workplace, or Occupational Asthma, also increases the risk of developing asthma later in life. |
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