1. What is asthma?

Bronchial asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways that makes the airways sensitive and prone to narrowing. People with asthma may experience:
- Persistent coughing, especially at night
- Wheezing
- Chest tightness
- Episodes of shortness of breath

Asthma is not a contagious disease and can be well controlled with proper treatment.

2. Can people with asthma live a healthy life?

The answer is yes.

Many people with asthma can still study, work, exercise, and live normally when they:
- Take medications regularly as prescribed by their doctor
- Avoid asthma triggers
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle

Well-controlled asthma helps:
- Reduce breathing attacks
- Improve sleep quality
- Decrease hospitalizations
- Enhance quality of life

3. Tips to help people with asthma live happily and healthily

- Keep the living environment clean
- Avoid cigarette smoke
- Limit exposure to dust, pet hair, and mold
- Keep the house well ventilated
- Wear a mask when going outside or during cold weather
- Use medications properly
- Use medications exactly as directed
- Do not stop taking medications even when feeling well
- Carry a reliever inhaler when needed
- Attend regular follow-up appointments
- Maintain a healthy diet
- Eat more vegetables and fruits
- Drink enough water
- Limit alcohol and carbonated soft drinks
- Avoid foods that previously caused allergies

- Exercise appropriately
- Walk, practice yoga, or cycle lightly
- Warm up carefully before exercise
- Regular exercise helps improve lung function
- Stay positive
- Get enough sleep
- Reduce stress
- Join social activities and meet friends
- Always keep an optimistic mindset

4. When should you go to the hospital?

Patients should seek medical attention immediately when:
- Shortness of breath worsens rapidly
- Difficulty speaking
- Blue lips or blue fingertips/toes
- Reliever medication does not help
- Asthma attacks occur repeatedly at night