Asthma is a serious lung disease that causes breathing problems. It is a condition that affects the airway or bronchi of the lungs. Over 10 million Americans have asthma. About 3 million of these are children under the age of 18.   Asthma... is a chronic disease. affects anyone regardless of race, income, gender or age. runs in families (3 out of 5 asthma cases may be inherited). is not contagious. is the most common reason for school absences. is a leading cause of emergency room visits and hospitalizations among children.   Most people with asthma can expect to live a symptom-free life with proper management and continuous medical management. Children at risk for asthma Children with allergies such as eczema, hay fever or food allergies at a very young age. Children with a family history of asthma. Babies born prematurely and have lung problems may develop asthma. Babies with severe respiratory infections, which may produce asthma, or symptoms that mimic asthma.   Common causes or triggers of asthma attacks Irritants such as smoke, fumes, cleaning agents, and perfume. Allergens such as plant pollens, household dusts, molds, and animal dander (from dogs, cats, horses, etc.) Emotional Stress Exercise Respiratory Infections colds, flu, etc. Sudden changes in temperature   Symptoms of an asthma attack Wheezing high-pitched noise produced by air passing through a narrowed airway. Coughing as the lungs try to dislodge the mucus. Difficulty in breathing due to narrowed airways and filled with mucus. Chest or neck hunched in or shoulders hunched over as the muscles surrounding the airway tightens.   Treatment for asthma attacks Bronchodilator medications relax the tight muscles of the air tube. Anti-inflammatories medications reduce the inflammation in the air tube.   Prepared by: Arphel A. Delacruz, R.N., San Mateo County Health Center Sources: Childhood Asthma: A Guide for Parents, 1993; Asthma and Your Child, 1997; Your Asthma Answer Book, 1995.