Asthma is a Greek word meaning breathlessness. Bronchial asthma, the subject of tonight's programme, is caused by the bronchial tubes (that is, the tubes in the lung) contracting so that it is difficult to breathe through them. Attacks usually last for an hour or two, but occasionally go on for much longer.
Several factors cause asthma.
Many people react to allergens such as dust, pollen, cats, and horses, or the tiny house mites which live in old mattresses and carpets. Cold air and warm air also affect some people.
Chest infections are another precipitating cause of asthma, and sometimes psychological factors make asthma worse.
It can be a serious disease, but nowadays a great deal can be done for it. There are de-sensitising injections for allergies and special drugs and sprays which are of great value to the asthmatic.
In tonight's programme the Consultant Physician and a colleague who also specialises in this disease discuss asthma, its causes, prevention, and treatment.
(Colour)