In people with asthma, the airways that run from the nasal cavity down to the lungs are overly sensitive. Asthma is the excessive response of these airways to a "trigger" such as dust in the air. It consists of swelling and inflammation of the airways, and reversible tightening of the tiny muscles that surround the airways (bronchospasm). In severe cases of asthma, damage to the lungs can accumulate over time, resulting in permanent narrowing of the airways.

Children with asthma may be able to breathe normally most of the time. When they encounter a trigger, however, an attack (exacerbation) can occur. Below is a list of common asthma triggers.

• tobacco smoke
• dust
• pollen
• exercise
• viral infections, such as the common cold
• animals (hair or dander)
• chemicals in the air or in food
• mold
• changes in weather (frequently cold weather)
• strong emotions
• aspirin and other medications

In recent years, there has been a worldwide increase in the number of children with asthma. This trend has been linked to environmental factors, including air pollution. However, it is important to understand that indoor triggers can play just as much of a role as outdoor triggers in bringing on an asthma exacerbation.

Children's airways are narrower than those of adults. This means that triggers that may cause only a slight response in an adult can be much more serious in children. In children, it can appear suddenly with severe symptoms. For this reason, it is important that asthma be diagnosed and treated correctly. For some children, this may mean taking daily medication even during times when the child is not having symptoms of asthma.

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