Asthma: Understanding Symptoms, Triggers & How It Affects Breathing

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway disease causing episodes of:

• Wheezing
• Coughing
• Chest tightness
• Shortness of breath

Triggers: allergens, exercise, cold air, stress.

Mechanism

During an attack, airway muscles tighten, narrowing airways → difficult airflow. Increased mucus production further obstructs breathing.

Management

Medications reduce inflammation and relax airway muscles; lifestyle changes avoid triggers. Proper treatment enables control.