This tightening causes labored breathing as air passages become narrowed, restricting air flow. Also, the breathing tubes become inflamed and swollen and produce excess mucus, which further inhibits breathing.
Asthma tends to occur in families where others have asthma, hay fever, or eczema.
The good news is that many children outgrow this condition. Pollen, molds, dust, animal dander, and colds and the flu are common triggers for asthma attacks. Some other things that tend to bring on attacks are cold air, strenuous exercise, flu, certain foods, stress, tobacco smoke, air pollution, car emissions, pesticides, and chemical fumes. Keep a log of what brings on your child's attacks so you can try to keep your child away from triggering agents. If exposure to triggers is likely, take steps to prepare for an attack.