You’ve probably heard of the condition asthma. But what exactly is it, and why does it make breathing so difficult? Asthma is a common condition that affects over 260 million people worldwide. It occurs when your airways become inflamed and narrow, making it hard for air to move in and out of your lungs.

People can develop asthma for different reasons. For some, it’s genetic; for others, it’s triggered by environmental factors like exposure to pollution, cigarette smoke, or allergens like dust and pollen. Even respiratory infections in early childhood can increase the risk. These triggers cause your airways to tighten and fill with mucus, leading to symptoms like wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath—also known as an asthma attack.

While there’s no cure, asthma can be controlled. Inhalers and medications help relax and open the airways, making it easier to breathe. Managing asthma means understanding your triggers, avoiding them when possible, staying active, and using your inhaler as prescribed.

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