Asthma is a chronic lung disease that involves muscle constriction, inflammation, and mucus build-up in the airways. Asthma symptoms include coughing, tight chest and wheezing. Asthma episodes are triggered when a sensitized individual is exposed to certain substances or conditions, also known as triggers. Asthma is often linked to allergy.

Asthma is a potentially life-threatening disease with a range of symptoms and degrees of severity. Although you do not outgrow it, you can learn to manage it. A person with asthma can lead a normal, active life.