Asthma

A long-term condition where the airways become inflamed and narrow, causing wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness and coughing.

Chronic conditionBreathingLast updated: 21 October 2026

Quick Summary

Primary Symptoms

Wheezing, shortness of breath, a tight chest and coughing, often worse at night, early morning or with exercise.

Common Treatments

Inhalers: a reliever for quick relief and a preventer to calm airway inflammation. Avoiding triggers and having a written asthma plan.

Risk Factors

Allergies, eczema, family history, smoke and air pollution, and some workplace dusts and chemicals.

OverviewSymptomsCausesTreatmentFAQ

Overview

Asthma affects the airways that carry air in and out of the lungs. In people with asthma, these airways are sensitive and inflamed. When they meet a trigger, the muscles around them tighten, the lining swells and more mucus is made, so the airways narrow.

Asthma can start at any age but often begins in childhood. Symptoms come and go, and many people have long spells with no symptoms at all.

With the right inhalers and by avoiding triggers, most people can control their asthma and live normally. An asthma attack can be life-threatening, so it's important to know what to do.

Symptoms

Wheezing

A whistling sound when breathing, especially when breathing out.

Shortness of breath

Feeling you can't get enough air, especially during exercise or at night.

Chest tightness

A feeling like a band tightening around the chest.

Cough

A cough that's often worse at night or early in the morning.

Causes & Risk Factors

Biological Causes

The exact cause isn't fully understood. Genes and the environment both play a part. People with asthma have airways that react strongly to triggers, which leads to inflammation and narrowing.

Key Risk Factors

  • Allergies Allergies to dust mites, pollen, mould or pets, and conditions like eczema and hay fever, are linked to asthma.
  • Smoke and pollution Tobacco smoke, indoor smoke from cooking fuels and outdoor air pollution can trigger and worsen asthma.
  • Infections Colds and flu are common triggers of asthma symptoms.
  • Family history Asthma and allergies often run in families.
  • Work Some dusts, chemicals and fumes at work can cause or worsen asthma.

Management & Treatment

01. Reliever inhaler

Used when symptoms start to open the airways quickly.

02. Preventer inhaler

Used every day, usually containing a steroid, to reduce inflammation and prevent attacks.

03. Other medicines

Tablets such as montelukast or other inhalers may be added if symptoms aren't controlled.

04. Asthma action plan

A written plan from your doctor or nurse explains your daily treatment, warning signs and what to do in an attack.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do in an asthma attack?
Sit up straight, use your reliever inhaler as your plan says and stay calm. If it doesn't help or you're getting worse, call your local emergency number (112 in India).
Can children grow out of asthma?
Some children's symptoms improve as they grow, but asthma can come back later in life.
Can I exercise with asthma?
Yes. With good control most people can exercise. Your doctor may suggest using your reliever before exercise.

Sources and further reading

Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.