Asthma is a long-term inflammatory disease of the airways that causes episodes of reversible airway constriction and sensitivity that make breathing difficult and can cause shortness of breath, coughing and tightness in the chest.

Childhood Asthma is common, with 1 in 4 children under 5 and 1 in 7 adolescents suffering from the condition. Childhood Asthma can be a serious condition which is frightening for parents to deal with, but it is important to remember that Childhood Asthma can be well controlled if the condition is managed appropriately. Some children 'grow out' of asthma as they become older. Clinical studies indicate that the persistence of Childhood Asthma into adult life is more likely in cases where Asthma is diagnosed at a very young age; the symptoms are more severe and accompanied by atopy (other allergic reactions such as eczema); there is consistent exposure to cigarette smoke; and in cases where there is a high level of exposure to allergens.