Asthma

ARTICLE SECTIONS

Introduction Signs and symptoms Causes Risk factors When to seek medical advice Screening and diagnosis

Complications Treatment Prevention Self-care Coping skills

Introduction

Asthma occurs when the main air passages of your lungs, the bronchial tubes, become inflamed. The muscles of the bronchial walls tighten, and cells in the lungs produce extra mucus further narrowing your airways. This can cause minor wheezing to severe difficulty in breathing. In some cases, your breathing may be so labored that an asthma attack becomes life-threatening.

Asthma is a chronic but treatable condition. You can manage your condition much like someone manages diabetes or heart disease. You and your doctor can work together to control asthma, reduce the severity and frequency of attacks and help maintain a normal, active life.

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Signs and symptoms