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Asthma

Asthma is a disease in which inflammation of the airways causes airflow into and out of the lungs to be restricted. The muscles of the bronchial tree become tight and the lining of the air passages swells, reducing airflow and producing the characteristic wheezing sound. This is known as an asthma attack, which can occur as an allergic reaction to an allergen or other substance (acute asthma), or as a part of a complex disease cycle which may include reaction to stress or exercise (chronic asthma.

Table of Contents

Definition Alternative Names Causes, incidence, and risk factors Symptoms Signs and tests Treatment Support Groups Expectations (prognosis) Complications Calling your health care provider Prevention References

Related Learning
Centers

·As a Disease/Condition

Asthma

·As a Complication

Allergies

Bronchiolitis

Drug Allergy

·As a Risk Factor

Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis

Breathing Too Fast (Tachypnea)

Heartburn

Sinusitis

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