What Is Asthma? Causes, Symptoms & How to Take Control

Asthma Symptoms, Causes
Asthma Symptoms, Causes
27.06.2025
Asthma, also known as bronchial asthma, is a chronic respiratory condition that inflames and narrows the airways in your lungs. These airways help transport air in and out of your lungs. When you have asthma, these passages become more sensitive and reactive to certain triggers—making it harder to breathe.

Asthma is not curable, but with the right treatment and awareness of asthma symptoms, it can be well managed.
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Take control of your breathing – every day.

Our Breathment app supports you in identifying asthma symptoms and triggers, integrating breathing exercises, and managing your treatment more effectively. Track your symptoms, receive medication reminders, access emergency plans, and stay ahead of your condition.

What Does Asthma Feel Like?

Imagine trying to breathe through a crumpled straw—while jogging. That tight, panicked feeling is similar to what someone with asthma may experience during an attack.

Common Asthma Symptoms

  • Shortness of breath – struggling to get enough air
  • Wheezing – a whistling sound while breathing, especially on exhale
  • Coughing – often worse at night or after exercise
  • Chest tightness – a heavy or constricted feeling in your chest

Curious about what might be causing your symptoms? Check out our article on What Triggers Asthma Symptoms.

Types of Asthma

There are different forms of asthma, and knowing your type helps determine the best treatment:
  • Allergic Asthma – triggered by pollen, pet dander, or dust mites
  • Exercise-Induced Asthma – symptoms occur during or after physical activity
  • Occupational Asthma – caused by workplace irritants like chemicals or dust
  • Non-Allergic Asthma – triggered by cold air, respiratory infections, or stress

Want to understand how medication helps? See our article on Asthma Medications & Inhalers – What Really Helps.
Asthma Attack, Symptoms, breathing

What Happens During an Asthma Attack?

An asthma attack is usually triggered by exposure to something your lungs are sensitive to—like pollen, smoke, or physical activity. Your body responds in three major ways:
  1. Inflammation – the lining of the airways swells
  2. Excess mucus – thick fluid clogs the airways
  3. Muscle tightening – the muscles around the airways contract

These reactions severely limit airflow, leading to intense asthma symptoms. Learn Why Corticosteroids Play a Key Role in Asthma Treatment and support long-term control.

How Breathing Works

To understand asthma, it helps to visualize your respiratory system:
  • Trachea (windpipe): the main passage for air
  • Bronchi: branches of the trachea that lead into each lung
  • Bronchioles: smaller tubes that carry air deeper into the lungs
  • Alveoli: tiny air sacs where oxygen is exchanged with carbon dioxide
In people with asthma, these airways overreact to triggers, making breathing difficult even under everyday conditions.

Everyday Tools: Track & Breathe Better

Trigger Awareness:

Start a simple journal noting when and where your asthma symptoms get worse (e.g., cold weather, after walking, emotional stress). Recognizing your patterns can help reduce future attacks.

Breathing Technique:

Try this when symptoms begin:
  • Inhale slowly through your nose for 4 seconds
  • Hold your breath for 2 seconds
  • Exhale gently through your mouth for 8 seconds
  • Repeat until you feel calmer and your breathing improves.

Make Your Home Asthma-Friendly

Did you know your home environment plays a huge role in asthma? Discover actionable tips for creating a safer space in Why Your Home Environment Matters in Asthma Management – from air filters and cleaning routines to fabrics and room setup.