Asthma is a chronic lung disease that makes it difficult to breathe. It affects about 25 million Americans.

Asthma causes inflammation in your airways. This inflammation can make your airways sensitive to certain triggers.

When you’re exposed to a trigger, your immune system overreacts. It releases chemicals that can cause:

  • your airways to become more inflamed, leaving less space for air to pass through
  • the muscles around your airways to tighten
  • your airways to produce extra mucus, making it harder to breathe

These changes can trigger an asthma exacerbation or attack. Common symptoms may include:

  • shortness of breath
  • coughing
  • wheezing
  • chest tightness

If you or someone you know lives with asthma, understanding the symptoms and treatments can help you better manage it. However, there are many myths about asthma that can delay treatment and impact your overall health and quality of life. 

Take this quiz to find out how much you know about asthma.