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.
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.
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:
-
Inflammation
– the lining of the airways swells
-
Excess mucus
– thick fluid clogs the airways
-
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.