How inflammation affects asthma

Muscles surrounding the airways may tighten at the same time. This combination reduces the space available for air to move, producing wheeze, cough, chest tightness or breathlessness.

Airway inflammation can persist even when breathing feels normal. Sensitive airways may then react to viral illness, smoke, dust, pollen, cold air or exercise. The trigger does not create asthma on each occasion; it prompts a response in airways already prone to inflammation.

Asthma commonly presents with variable wheeze, coughing, breathlessness and chest tightness. Because these symptoms also occur in other conditions, clinicians combine the pattern with examination and breathing tests where appropriate.

A prescribed preventer inhaler targets airway inflammation and is generally taken regularly, including on symptom-free days. A reliever works differently by relaxing tightened airway muscles; relying on relief alone may leave inflammation insufficiently treated.

Use the dose and schedule in your personal plan, and have inhaler technique checked. Rinse your mouth after an inhaled corticosteroid if instructed. Seek a medication review when night waking, activity limits or reliever use increases, as these changes may signal poorer control.

Severe breathlessness, difficulty finishing sentences, blue or grey lips, confusion, faintness, marked exhaustion or fast deterioration require emergency help. Carry out the emergency steps in the written asthma plan while assistance is arranged. If the prescribed reliever gives little or short-lived benefit during worsening symptoms, obtain urgent assessment.

Ask how each inhaler acts on tightening or inflammation, which changes indicate loss of control, and whether your technique delivers the medicine effectively. Request a clear written plan covering everyday prevention, early flare treatment and emergency action.