Overview
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway disease characterized by variable airflow obstruction.
Key Points
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway disease. Symptoms can vary over time and may be triggered by exercise, allergens, respiratory infections, or other factors.
Symptoms
Common symptoms include wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing.
Causes and Triggers
Asthma results from airway inflammation and increased airway responsiveness. Triggers vary between individuals.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on the clinical history together with objective assessment of variable expiratory airflow limitation.
Treatment and Management
Management may include inhaled medicines, trigger management, education, monitoring, and an individualized action plan.