All about Asthma and How to Live with It

Paul, a respiratory disease specialist, and Fafoglia, a free- lance writer, have combined their skills to compile this simple introduction to asthma. Written in serviceable prose, and following a question-and-answer format, the guide will be easily accessible to a broad readership. As well as offering practical advice (how to identify emergency situations; the effects of asthma on pregnancy and surgery), the authors provide basic information on disease pathology. Their straightforward explanations are refreshingly different from the labored, often mystifying semi-professional publications available on the subject. However, Paul and Fafoglia break no new ground. New or alternative treatment strategies are not discussed, nor is nutrition. Also disappointing are the sometimes inappropriate illustrations, such as the dust mite rendered to resemble a creature from a horror film. These problems aside, case histories, explanations of symptoms and treatments, and a useful collection of appendices make good on the title's promise. (Oct.)