Allergy Terms to Know

• Allergen, a substance, such as pollen, mold, dust mites, or animal dander that can cause an allergic response.

• Bronchoconstriction, a tightening of the muscles around the airways, narrowing the airways and making breathing difficult.

• Inflammation, a swelling and irritation in the airways of the lungs common in asthma.

• Inhaler, a device that delivers asthma medication to the lungs.

• Mucus, a wet, sticky substance that is produced by the airways when inflamed or infected.

• Peak flow, a measure of how hard and fast air can be expelled from the lungs.

• Triggers, irritants or allergens, such as weather conditions, fumes, pollution or exercise, that can cause an asthma attack.

• Wheezing, the whistling or squeaky sound created by the airways.