Asthma is a disorder that affects the lungs and causes breathing to be difficult or impossible. Asthma is incurable, but it is treatable. Asthma may be caused by genetics, environmental causes or both. Asthma attacks may occur when a person is stressed or exposed to allergens. Also, respiratory infections and some medications can cause an attack. Asthma affects the lungs by causing the following problems.
Inflamed Bronchial Tubes
Asthma causes bronchial tubes to become inflamed. This inflammation then causes the airways to become constricted, making breathing difficult.
Swelling of Airway Linings
Asthma also causes airways within the lungs to swell. This also causes the airways to become constricted.
Tightening of Bronchial Wall Muscles
In addition, asthma causes the muscles within the bronchial wall to tighten. This tightening causes breathing difficulties.
Excess Mucus Production
Asthma also causes airways within the lungs to produce excess mucus that obstructs airways and causes breathing problems.
Symptoms of an Asthma Attack
When as asthma attack occurs, the afflicted individual may feel tightness in his chest. The individual may have breathing difficulties as well. He will probably cough and wheeze during the attack. Medication may be needed to treat asthma attacks.
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