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Asthma is ongoing (chronic) inflammation of airways in the lungs. This inflammation makes the airways vulnerable to episodes of difficult breathing (asthma attacks). Common triggers of attacks include allergies, colds and exercise.

Asthma in older children can interfere with sleep, school, sports and social activities. The emotional, social and developmental changes associated with adolescence may sometimes complicate disease management.

Asthma management depends on controlling inflammation with drugs, avoiding triggers when possible and using medications to treat asthma attacks. Your child can learn to minimize symptoms by following a written action plan developed with your child's doctor to monitor and adjust treatment as necessary.