Although the word asthma is popularly associated with wheezing in general, bronchial asthma, in our opinion, is an allergic disease, with generalized wheezing, dyspnea, orthopnea, and cough, usually associated with seasonal or perennial rhinitis. The wheezing is due to partial obstruction caused chiefly by edema and mucus. The watery material tends to be expelled during expiration; thick tenacious sputum and mucous plugs may remain. Space will not permit discussion regarding etiology, diagnosis, and differential diagnosis. 1 PREVENTIVE TREATMENT OF BRONCHIAL ASTHMA Children of allergic parents are likely to have allergic diseases. They need shielding from potent allergens, and allergic parents should observe the following precautions: 1. Dogs and cats should be removed from the home. Even if results of tests are negative, the dander is likely to aggravate symptoms, and rhinitis or asthma may follow. 2. House dust should be kept at a minimum. The mattress and pillows should be