Overview

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects the airways of the lungs. It causes inflammation and narrowing of the bronchial tubes, making breathing difficult. The condition can develop at any age and varies in severity from mild to life-threatening. Symptoms may occur occasionally or frequently, depending on triggers and control levels. Asthma often involves airway sensitivity to environmental factors. The inflammation is usually ongoing, even when symptoms are not visible. During flare-ups, breathing becomes more difficult due to airway constriction. Asthma can interfere with sleep, physical activity, and daily life. With proper diagnosis, most individuals can manage symptoms effectively. Regular monitoring is important to prevent severe attacks. Understanding the condition helps improve long-term respiratory health.

What Happens During Allergic Rhinitis?

During an asthma episode, the lining of the airways becomes inflamed and swollen. The muscles surrounding the airways tighten, a process known as bronchospasm. At the same time, excess mucus is produced inside the air passages. These combined changes narrow the airways and restrict airflow. This results in wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. In severe cases, airflow may become significantly limited, requiring urgent medical attention.

Diagnosis

Asthma is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, symptom evaluation, and lung function tests. Spirometry is commonly used to measure how well the lungs are working. Peak flow measurements may help assess airflow limitation. In some cases, additional tests such as allergy evaluation or chest imaging may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and determine severity.