24 - Asthma

Summary

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways characterized by increased sensitivity to irritating stimuli. Inflammatory episodes obstruct airflow due to bronchospasm, airway edema, bronchial smooth muscle contraction, and mucus plugs, leading to recurrent episodes of wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. The inflammatory episodes also lead to lung hyperinflation, increased work of breathing, and ventilation–perfusion mismatch. A hallmark of asthma is that the inflammatory episodes are reversible.