Bronchial asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways characterized by recurring episodes of breathing difficulty, wheezing, coughing, and chest tightness. It is a common respiratory condition that affects the bronchial tubes, which carry air in and out of the lungs.
In individuals with bronchial asthma, the airways become hypersensitive to certain triggers such as allergens (pollen, dust mites, animal dander), irritants (smoke, strong odors, pollution), respiratory infections, exercise, or cold air. When exposed to these triggers, the airways become inflamed and narrowed, causing difficulty in breathing. This inflammation results in increased production of mucus and tightening of the smooth muscles surrounding the airways, further narrowing its diameter.
During an asthma attack, the individual may experience symptoms like shortness of breath, wheezing (a whistling sound while breathing out), coughing often worsened at night or in the early morning, and chest tightness. These symptoms can range from mild to severe, with some cases requiring immediate medical attention.
The treatment for bronchial asthma aims to manage and control the symptoms effectively. It typically involves the use of medications such as bronchodilators to widen the airways, anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce inflammation, and in some cases, immunotherapy to desensitize the individual to specific allergens. In addition to medication, avoiding triggers, maintaining good air quality, and adopting a healthy lifestyle can also play a significant role in managing bronchial asthma.
