What is Asthma?
Asthma is a chronic condition caused by inflammation (swelling) of the lining of the airways in human lungs. Although there is no cure for asthma, it can be treated. The asthma condition produces symptoms similar those associated with allergies, such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and a tightening of the chest.
What triggers asthma?

Allergies:
Allergies are a significant trigger of asthma. Individuals are genetically susceptible to dust-mites, animal dander, cockroaches, and respiratory infections are at greater risk of developing asthma.

Indoors: There are a number of risk factors for asthma associated with the indoor environment. Those with asthma and those susceptible tallergies should consider the following risk factors at home, at school, and in the workplace.
Dust
Insect residue: cockroach infestation
Cigarette and cigar smoke
Dust-mites
Mold
Animal dander: pet hair

Outdoors: Asthma has a number of risk factors associated with the outdoor environment.
Cold air
Pollen from trees and flowers
Outdoor mold often found in wooded areas
Air pollutants
Ozone
Particulate matter
Sulfur dioxide
Smoke from woodstoves and leaf burning
Smog
Automobile exhaust

Exercise: Exercise can induce asthma symptoms in both the indoor and outdoor environment. Exercise may trigger asthma in the presence of poor air quality, high mold and pollen levels, and extreme cold.

Medical Conditions: Existing medical conditions, or the onset of medical conditions may increase the probability of experiencing asthma symptoms. The following medical conditions are commonly associated with asthma:
Viral respiratory infection
Gastroesophageal reflux (Heart burn and indigestion)
Rhinitis/Sinusitis (hay fever and sinus infections)
Sulfite sensitivity
Conditions that necessitate the use of some prescription drugs (NSAIDS, Beta-blockers)