Asthma is a long-term (chronic) disease of the respiratory system
that causes inflammation and spasm or tightening in the bronchial tubes, which
carry air to the lungs. The inflammation causes periodic episodes of difficulty
breathing, wheezing, chest tightness, and coughing.
Although asthma cannot be cured, most people can control their
asthma by following a plan, avoiding triggers, and taking medicine.
Asthma often begins during childhood and may last throughout a
person's life.
The cause of asthma is not clearly known. It is more common in
people who also have allergies.