Here is a thorough and accessible account of asthma especially written for patients and their families. The introduction provides a vivid description of life as an asthmatic, written by a sufferer who is a doctor. The authors describe what is known of the causes and mechanisms of asthma, how it manifests itself throughout life, and how often the disease occurs in different parts of the world. All aspects of treatment, including self-help and 'complementary' therapies, are discussed. This complete revision incorporates new findings on the mechanisms of asthma and describes important innovations in treatment. The concept of prevention by improved delivery of care and self-management is also discussed.