Asthma Antics Trivia Quiz

Answer: All of these

Asthma is an inflammatory disease. This means that the airway and small air passages in the lungs become swollen and inflamed, often as an allergic response to a "trigger". At the same time, the airways narrow, and may become clogged with sputum and mucus.

Answer: Sneezing

Sneezing may occur in people with asthma if they suffer from a related allergy, such as rhinitis or hayfever, but not generally with asthma alone -- at least not any more than the average person sneezes!

Other symptoms of asthma include coughing more at night and a feeling of tightness in the chest.

Answer: Cold winter air

There are many different allergens, with different people being affected by different things, or nothing at all. These may include pollens, animal dander/hairs, house dust mites, medications, or certain materials such as latex.

There are other factors which can trigger asthma attacks, which are described as being "irritant" to the airways rather than causing a true allergic response. These may include cold air, laughter, stress, or humidity.

Answer: Get your friend some medical attention

All breathing difficulties require medical attention. Do not be afraid of "causing a fuss" - asthma can, and does, kill.

Answer: 450 BC

Asthma was first recognised as a specific respiratory disease by Hippocrates in around 450 BC in Ancient Greece. Recognition of asthma-like symptoms dates back even further to Ancient Egypt.

During the 1930's-50's, asthma was thought of as a psychological or psychosomatic disease, to be cured using talking therapies rather than the drugs we use nowadays.

Answer: Teacher

Bakers, farmers, and labourers (among others, such as those who paint cars or work with chemicals) are all susceptible to developing "occupational asthma". This is usually due to inhaling fine particles of flour, pollen, or dust during their day-to-day jobs.

Answer: Avoid taking medication, even when feeling well

Exercise is important for everyone, and people with asthma are no exception. Taking a preventative inhaler shortly before exercise can help prevent symptoms occurring, but it is important to work to your own ability - every asthmatic has different limits. In fact, many famous athletes and sportsmen/women are asthmatic, including David Beckham, Ian Botham, and Paula Radcliffe!

It is sensible to carry an inhaler at all times, and you may find it helpful to write down what brings your asthma on, to show to your doctor or nurse. Most importantly, asthma medications should be taken as prescribed, even when you feel well - this means the medications are working!

Answer: Less than 5%

Brittle asthma is a very rare, and very severe, form of asthma. These people are often taking a lot of medication to control their disease, but still continue to suffer from symptoms and severe attacks on an almost daily basis.

It is essential that people with brittle asthma are closely monitored by a respiratory specialist, and do not delay in getting medical attention when it is needed.

Answer: Peru

Peru has the highest levels of childhood asthma in the world. The top five ranked countries may surprise you...

1. Peru
2. New Zealand
3. Australia
4. Uruguay
5. Kuwait

The USA is ranked sixth highest. Childhood asthma is gaining prevalence in the UK, too.

Answer: All of these

There are many invaluable resources for gaining support with asthma. Asthma UK is a charity involved with supporting those affected by asthma, as well as research, fundraising, and providing information. The British Lung Foundation is another charity bringing support to people with lung conditions.

Doctors and nurses involved in asthma care are great resources for providing support and information, as well as other healthcare professionals. Ask your GP if there is an Expert Patient Program running in your area - run by patients, for patients, the program aims to empower people to enable them to their lives to their full potential whilst suffering from a long-term condition, such as asthma.