Asthma

People with asthma have oversensitive airways that react strongly to allergens such as pollen, cigarette smoke, dust mites and animal dander. When you're exposed to these triggers, your immune system kicks into overdrive and closes off your airways, making it difficult to breathe.

Dr. Oz explains the physical reactions during an asthma attack.

There are many things you can do to manage your asthma on a daily basis. Talk to your doctor about creating an asthma action plan so you can recognize the symptoms before your asthma attacks. Take your medicine regularly and monitor your PEF levels every day. The right diet and knowing danger signs are other ways you can breathe more easily every day.