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Asthma is a respiratory disease that affects a personís ability to receive proper amounts of oxygen in the lungs. When a personís bronchial tubes, which are responsible for transporting oxygen to the lungs, are inflamed, it causes a personís airway to become sensitive.

Things like mold, tobacco smoke, animal, dust and weather can trigger asthma. Most people who have asthma attacks experience shortness of breath, wheezing, and tightness of the chest.

The American Lung Association of Texas indicates that asthma is the sixth-ranking chronic condition in the United States and the leading chronic illness of children. It also estimates that 20 million Americans (six million children under the age of 18) currently suffer from asthma and that 5,000 deaths occur annually from this disease.

During the winter season, cold air could trigger asthma problems for some. In order to reduce the risks of getting asthma attacks, the American Lung Association of Texas suggests that people do the following:

ï Wear gloves, hats, and scarves: Most people dress warmly during the winter months; however, those who have asthma should make an attempt to cover their faces with a scarf so that the air entering their nose is warm and moist.

ï Monitor air quality indoors: Making your home warmer during the winter months could make indoor air quality very dry and release irritants that could affect your air passage ways. Try avoiding things that can pollute air indoors like wood stoves or fireplaces.

ï Get your flu shot: An influenza vaccine has proven to be effective for those who suffer from asthma during the winter months.

ï Watch out for over-the-counter cold medications: Check with your doctor before taking over-the-counter medications. Some of these medications may be counter-productive for those with asthma.

ï Consult your doctor: Consult with your physician for an asthma care plan and notify him/her immediately when you and/or your child become sick during the season.

ï Make sure youíre prepared: Make sure that you and/or your child have your medications before going outside; be prepared to handle and asthma episode before it happens.

For more information on avoiding asthma-related problems during the winter, contact JosÈ Mundo, Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) Coordinator, at (202) 782-3390. For additional information visit www.lungusa.com.