The number of asthma sufferers has steadily increased in recent years: 6 to 8 percent of adults and 10 to 15 percent of children suffer from this chronic condition, where the airways overreact to external stimuli. Shortness of breath, coughing, a feeling of tightness, and difficulty breathing are the results. This book provides an overview of asthma, possible causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.