Asthma Words to Know

• Definition: Asthma

  Asthma is a chronic lung disorder that causes airways (the tubes that carry air into and out of the lungs) to become inflamed, which means that they swell and produce lots of thick mucus.

• Definition: Asthma Flare-Up

  When symptoms of asthma, such as wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath, become more severe, more frequent, or both, it’s known as an asthma flare-up.

• Definition: Exercise-Induced Asthma

  Some people have exercise-induced asthma, which means that their asthma symptoms (such as coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath) are triggered by exercise or physical activity.

• Definition: Histamine

  Histamine – a chemical found in some of the body’s cells – causes many of the symptoms of allergies, such as a runny nose or sneezing.

• Definition: Immunoglobulin (IgE)

  Immunoglobulin E (IgE) is a type of protein in the body called an antibody.

• Definition: Nebulizer

  A nebulizer is an electrically powered machine that turns liquid medication into a mist so that it can be breathed directly into the lungs through a face mask or mouthpiece.

• Definition: Pollen

  Pollen is a fine powder produced by certain plants when they reproduce.

• Definition: Retractions

  Retractions are a sign that someone is working hard to breathe.