Bronchial Asthma?

What is bronchial asthma?

[National Jewish]

Asthma, also known as reactive airway disease, is a chronic condition of the lungs that affects the airways with the following changes:
- Inflammation or Swelling
Recent research has shown that inflammation of the lining of the airways is the most common feature of asthma. When they are stimulated, certain cells lining the airways release chemical substances (mediators), which lead to inflammation. This causes the airway lining to swell and narrow. The inflammation may last for weeks following an episode. Most people with asthma have some degree of inflammation all of the time. Some long-term control medications can help prevent and reduce inflammation.
- Increased Sensitivity
When inflammation occurs in your airways, your airways become more sensitive. When your airways are more sensitive, you are more likely to have asthma symptoms when exposed to things that make your asthma worse. When there is less inflammation, your airways are less sensitive and you are less likely to have asthma symptoms when exposed to things that make your asthma worse.
- Obstruction of Airflow
In addition to inflammation, further airway obstruction may occur due to the tightening of the muscles that surround your airways. This is called bronchospasm and causes further narrowing of your inflamed airways. Inhaled quick relief medications are generally very effective in reversing the bronchospasm.
In some people with asthma, the mucus glands in the airways produce excessive, thick mucus, further obstructing the airways.
For more information on asthma, please contact Lung Line