In asthma the airways of the lungs, or bronchioles, are inflamed. When exposed to certain irritants, the airways swell. This constricts and impedes the flow of air into and out of the lungs. In addition, cells in the bronchioles often produce thick, excess mucus, further narrowing the passageways, making it difficult to breathe. Asthma is a chronic disease, and cannot be cured, but can be controlled with medication and careful attention to the irritants that trigger symptoms.
In asthma the airways of the lungs, or bronchioles, are inflamed. When exposed to certain irritants, the airways swell. This constricts and impedes the flow of air into and out of the lungs. In addition, cells in the bronchioles often produce thick, excess mucus, further narrowing the passageways, making it difficult to breathe. Asthma is a chronic disease, and cannot be cured, but can be controlled with medication and careful attention to the irritants that trigger symptoms.
